The Patriots keep straining to put a positive face on their ugly play. But a four-game losing streak and 1-4 record has generated pent-up frustration and aggravation that is beginning to peak — and pique — through the surface via body language and spoken language.
Taking a page from their book, I’m sharing some pent-up Patriots thoughts five games into this rebuilding season:
1. The most damning and disconcerting aspect of their disheartening 15-10 loss to the Dolphins on Sunday at Gillette Stadium was the continued downturn of the defense. On paper, allowing 15 points should be a source of pride.