Let's be honest, no one (not even us Koolaid drinkers) thought this was a Superbowl year for the Pats at the beginning of the season.  It was a rebuilding year with nearly half of the roster comprised of 1st or 2nd year players.  Nearly everyone was picking them to go 10-6 at best.  So all things considered, we had a hell of a year and should feel no shame.  And while we are considering things, consider this: 1.  Two of our most important players on defense were out before the season even started.  Ty Warren, Leigh Bodden. 2.  No pass rush.  We knew coming into the year we weren't going to have much of a pass rush, and it turned out to be even worse. 3.  A completely injury ridden Defensive Line.  Seriously, how many DL men did we put on the IR over the course of the year?  It was being held together with ductape and chewing gum.  Yes, we have Wilfork and that went a long way to making up for the rest of the line, but even superman could only do so much there. I'm not trying to make excuses, but let's face facts here.  As for the future, we have a fantastic position in the draft, and this is still a place where veterans want to come to try and get that ring.  We need help on both lines, a pass rusher, and a big physical receiver.  I believe we can get back to the promised land soon though, and we are closer today then we were at the beginning of the season. 
Posted by agill1970