The new era has begun as the Detroit Lions’ new head coach Matt Patricia stepped to the podium this afternoon, and showed off his new look for his new digs.
Head Coach Matt Patricia is now at the podium
Watch live ➡️ https://t.co/6PVXUPStLS pic.twitter.com/W554AtdXIT
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) February 7, 2018
Patricia, the 27th head coach in Detroit Lions history, has trimmed down the famous beard and is going for a more professional look as he ascends from defensive coordinator of the 5-time Super Bowl Champion Patriots to top dog of the forever-underdog Detroit Lions. And right off the bat, Patricia came out saying words that will be music to Lions’ fan’s ears.
Patricia says he’s a leader and problem solver and wants a tough football team.
— Tim Twentyman (@ttwentyman) February 7, 2018
Patricia: "I think as a head coach you need to be involved in all aspects of the team."
— Tim Twentyman (@ttwentyman) February 7, 2018
The eighth head coach since 2000 spoke about his staff. Both additions as well as keeping a certain someone, a certain quarterback is rather fond of.
Patricia says having Paul Pasqualoni as DC is a “natural fit” because of how much he learned as a coach from Pasqualoni. “There’s a huge comfort level for me.”
— Tori Petry (@sportstori) February 7, 2018
Patricia says Jim Bob Cooter is on staff and will be here.
— Tim Twentyman (@ttwentyman) February 7, 2018
He also apparently reached out to that certain quarterback.
Patricia said he talked to Matthew Stafford last night. “Had a great conversation.” Wished him Happy Birthday with Stafford’s 30th being today
— Tim Twentyman (@ttwentyman) February 7, 2018
And he, as well as GM Bob Quinn, spoke to the future and his plans as Lions’ head coach.
Patricia says he’s not locked into a scheme and that it ultimately has to be tailored around the players you have.
— Tim Twentyman (@ttwentyman) February 7, 2018
Quinn said he and Patricia will be "tied at the hip" in terms of player acquisition moving forward.
— Tim Twentyman (@ttwentyman) February 7, 2018
Patricia is taking over a Detroit Lions team that has underachieved over the last few seasons, especially this past one where injuries struck all of their divisional foes and the Lions still could not make the playoffs. Many believe the offensive tools are there, as well as the defensive parts, so it falls on Patricia to steer this ship in the right direction.
To watch the Patricia press conference, click the link and fast-forward to the 16:00 minute mark.
Head Coach Matt Patricia is now at the podium
Watch live ➡️ https://t.co/6PVXUPStLS pic.twitter.com/W554AtdXIT
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) February 7, 2018