It doesn't have to be an F. A C-plus will do the trick for the typical Hermione Granger-level overachiever. First, the lower lip starts quivering. Then comes a quick spin through the five stages of grief. This can't be happening! It's not fair! Can I get a retest? How can I possibly move on from this 78 in a chemistry quiz?
Finally, there's acceptance, usually in the form of a teacher showing Mister or Miss Valedictorian that even with the semi-poor grade, their average is 96.7.
Yes, we're talking about the Patriots. They got a poor grade this year.