Detroit Lions: 3 keys to victory in their Week 1 matchup
By Kellen Voss
Matt Patricia needs to stay poised in his debut
A good portion of Detroit Lions fans were sad to see former head coach Jim Caldwell be fired. Although he lacked the ability to show emotion on the field, he was well liked by the players and was able to lead Detroit to multiple playoff appearances.
As nice as it is to make the playoffs, Bob Quinn and the rest of the Detroit front office decided that simply making the playoffs isn’t good enough. They want to see this team do some damage once they get to the playoffs.
That’s where new head coach Matt Patricia can offer some help. The former New England defensive coordinator has won multiple super bowls and has worked with future Hall of Famers, so he has some understanding of how to succeed in the playoffs.
But before the Lions worry about the playoffs, they need to relax and take this season one game at a time. Known for his fiery emotions on the sideline, Patricia has looked reserved in the preseason games this season, mimicking Caldwell’s calm demeanor.
Like Darnold, Patricia will also be making his debut tonight. In order for him to win his first game as an NFL head coach, Patricia needs to remain poised, make the necessary changes at halftime, and execute the brilliant defensive schemes he was brought in to install.
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If Detroit Lions players can rally around their captain, the ship will sail a lot more smoothly. A calm yet aggressive Matt Patricia needs to not be outcoached if he wants the Lions to start this season with a win in the record column.