New England Patriots safety Jabrill Peppers was caught on a hot mic following Sunday’s game against the New York Giants, making his feelings known about the state of the organization at the moment.
Despite his words, which he recently apologized for, he still has unwavering support for coach Bill Belichick. Peppers is not liking the criticism of his coach, and he puts the Patriots’ lack of success more on the players, as transcribed by NESN.com’s Zack Cox.
“Because week in and week out, Bill comes up with and tells us what we need to do to win, and we don’t do it,” said Peppers. “The game plan is great. And I feel as though this is a players’ league. No matter what you call, as long as we’re on the same accord, the communication is there, we’re all doing the exact same thing, it shouldn’t matter what you call. I take pride in that.
“I don’t really like (the Belichick criticism). I don’t really listen to the outside noise, but I don’t like that. People aren’t in this building. These guys work hard, leave late, (spend) time away from their family to try to put us in the best position to maximize our talents and make plays, and we’re just not doing it. It pisses me off.”
The Patriots organization currently sits with a 2-9 record. Peppers’ comments came after New England lost to the New York Giants by a 10-7 score.
A loss to the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday could officially eliminate the organization from playoff contention. This would be the fifth year in a row that the Patriots would end the season without winning a playoff game and the second season in a row that the team could miss the playoffs entirely.
This is certainly one of the stronger statements defending Belichick from inside the locker room. Peppers has had a strong season for New England in his own right. He has tallied 42 tackles, six pass deflections and an interception on the season.
It’s easy to see why this has been such a frustrating season for the Patriots organization, and it does not look to be getting better anytime soon.
