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Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots react to the death of Dick MacPherson

It's difficult to imagine two different public personas than beloved former Syracuse coach Dick MacPherson and taciturn Super Bowl champion Bill Belichick, but the New England Patriots head coach said Wednesday he believes the SU legend played a role in his success.

While reminiscing about MacPherson, who died on Tuesday at age 86, Belichick noted that the SU coach's connections have played a role in one of the NFL's greatest dynasties.

New England has won five Super Bowl titles under Belichick, who ticked off connections with MacPherson during a press conference with Patriot reporters. MacPherson also coached the franchise for two years.