Mass Exodus


A sobering Superbowl experience is just the start for the New England Patriots. They saw this coming but it doesn't make things any easier. Both offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels and defensive coordinator Matt Patricia are leaving for greener pastures. McDaniels will become the head coach of the Colts and Patricia will take over the Lions. McDaniels finds himself in a great spot but that is contingent on one thing: The health of Andrew Luck. My intuition tells me that Luck will be healthy enough to go. Its hard to picture someone taking that job without Luck in tow. However, it is worth mentioning that McDaniels does have a relationship with last years starter Jacoby Brissett. That will be something to watch going forward. This could prove to be an excellent hire by the Colts brass if they keep Josh out of personnel decisions. His previous reign in Denver ended catastrophically when he was given both the GM and Head coaching jobs. He proceeded to let his ego get the best of him as he jettisoned Jay Cutler, Brandon Marshall and Tony Scheffeler (arguably their three best offensive players at the time). He supplemented this with the questionable decision of drafting Tim Tebow in the first round. Needless to say the man didn't last long. The hope is this offensive genius has learned his lesson and is ready for the new gig.

Patricia is an interesting candidate. While I do think he is a good coach, this year was a rough one. The defence had stretches of dominance but was generally underwhelming. One could blame injuries but the argument does not hold too much weight in NFL circles. You have to think the Lions were watching the Superbowl and thinking "this could be bad". Regardless, I do think they made the right decision as Patricia is an excellent tactician who learned how to coach from the best. He has a franchise qb in place and solid defence. I could see the Lions in the hunt for a playoff berth next year. This is assuming he can put his Superbowl demons behind him

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