Detroit Lions headlines: Matt Patricia’s shelf life, Midwest Patriots
Although he just got here, some Detroit Lions fans are wondering how long Matt Patricia will last. We’ll talk about that and more in today’s headlines.
The offseason keeps rollin’ on in the Motor City. And although things have slowed down publicity for the Detroit Lions following a week of coaching announcements, behind the scenes the Pride are preparing for the upcoming NFL Scouting Combine and free agency.
In the lull, questions about the Lions’ new head coach, his staff and their connection to his previous teams have started to surface. We’ll discuss those topics plus look at Detroit’s previous draft class in today’s headlines.
Poll: How long will Matt Patricia last as Detroit Lions coach? – MLive.com
This seems like a morbid question considering the guy was just signed to the team officially last week. But this is a fanbase who has also seen their slew of head coaches come and go, some more quickly than others. The poll for Patricia’s tenure is leaning towards 8+ years right now, which seems terribly optimistic.
Lions president Rod Wood insists: ‘We’re not trying to replicate Patriots’ – Detroit Free Press
My question is why not? The Patroits have had a legendary run of Super Bowl success, overshadowing some of the greatest franchises in NFL history. I think every other team in the league wants the Pat’s success. Embrace it! The Lions have invested more than most, adding a general manager and head coach with major ties to New England.
Don’t panic: Top 10 players who can bounce back in Year 2 – Pro Football Focus
The player mentioned in the above article is Lions’ linebacker Jarrad Davis. Although Davis led all rookies in total tackles, his struggles in coverage hurt his overall rating. Against the run, the rookie excelled. Now his focus needs to be on pass coverage, which is something this revamped Patricia defense will undoubtedly need him to do.
NFC North rookie grades: Chicago Bears did a lot with a little – NFL.com
The grade for the Lions 2017 draft class is certainly hurt by the limited play of second round cornerback Teez Tabor. Throw in a midseason slump from linebacker Jarrad Davis, the Lions’ top pick, and Detroit ranks third in the NFC North in this post. But the truth is, the Lions had a better draft than that. And the addition of Patricia should only help them in Year Two.
Next: The Detroit Lions All-Time Offensive Team
Matt Patricia using ‘Syracuse connection’ to build Detroit Lions staff (report) – Syracuse.com
In his very first tenure as an NFL head coach, Matt Patricia drawing from his past to help fill his staff is understandable. But you may be shocked to find how many members of this new Lions’ coaching staff have ties to his days at Syracuse.