ALLEN PARK -- Those wanting a little more fire out of Matt Patricia just got their wish.
The Detroit Lions coach opened his press conference Friday with an 891-word written statement explaining the nuances of why the team practiced outdoors Thursday, even though it was snowing, and even though they play nothing but indoor and warm-weather games for the next month. That includes Sunday's game against visiting Carolina.
Say what you will about the statement, but you have to give Patricia credit for explaining himself. It's the sort of thing fans have been clamoring for as this season has fallen apart, and heretofore, Patricia has been reluctant.