Detroit Lions: 3 options to be the new defensive coordinator in 2020

Option Three: Greg Mattison, Co-Defensive Coordinator, Ohio State

Mattison is probably unknown by most but he was a coach for the Michigan Wolverines for most of the last five years, except for this past year when he came onto the defensive staff at Ohio State as the co-defensive coordinator last year.

Mattison has always had one of the top defenses in college football since his time at Michigan and in his first year at OSU he has them ranked first overall in total defense in the NCAA. His defense held opposing teams to under 260 yards per game and under 4.15 yards per play.

His defense this past year was able to come up with 15 interceptions, 13 forced fumbles, and 11 fumble recoveries. The leading interceptor was cornerback Jeffrey Okudah.

One interesting thing to note is that the Lions are the odds on favorite right now to land Okudah with the third pick in the draft. Hiring Mattison and then pairing him with Okudah immeadiately could be a bonus point for Mattison once Patricia makes his decision.

Another reason Mattison could be in play is his NFL experience. He was the defensive coordinator of the Baltimore Ravens for two years from 2009-2010 and the linebackers coach in 2008. While there he had the Ravens ranked as the number three team in scoring defense both years and number three ranked defense in total defense.

His experience in the NFL would be a plus as the Lions defensive coordinator and having been a DC in college the past years he will have adapted to the more modern style of offense that is being run in both college and NFL. All of this combines to paint a picture of a smart, adaptable coach who can handle an entire defensive squad and has the past knowledge of what dealing with an NFL locker room is like. While he is a candidate who is never talked about, it wouldn’t surprise me if he turned out to be a good hire should the Lions decide to go this route.