Bengals in a quagmire?

After watching the Bengals fail to make the playoffs for the umpteenth time, I wonder what happened. I mean, Marvin Lewis was supposed to "right the ship" after his hire four years ago wasn't he.

For the most part he has, but when a coach loses his team towards the end of two seasons (in a row) when it mattered most, you have to wonder about the psychology of the team. The Bengals just do not have a tough mentality to be champions I am guessing.

The Bengals were supposed to build upon the magical year of last season, but instead, they tanked. I often hear about injuries, off the field problems, and etc. However, strong teams get through these problems don't they.

So my questions are: what does it take to build a strong sports mentality; What does it take to create a winner; What does it take to build a champion like the Patriots; Why doesn't every team follow suit and build a winner from New England's perenniel blue print?

Anyone know the answers or mind sharing their thoughts? These questions really are presented to any team who continually loses or faces any of the same problems as the Bengals.