Pettine explained his direct approach and sarcastic sense of humor had earned him the nickname "BFT -- Blunt Force Trauma" earlier during his coaching career.
The second-year head coach's demeanor made for some entertaining answers Monday when the subjects of expectations and job security were broached during a 38-minute interview with beat writers at team headquarters.
Here's the exchange:
Reporter: You're optimistic. Your coaches, your players, everyone in this building feels this is a much better team.
Pettine: “Well, how many NFL teams at this point of the year are not optimistic?