Bill O'Brien Clarifies His Working Relationship With General Manager Rick Smith: "It's A Partnership"

Bill O'Brien took to the podium today and fielded questions after the tumultuous aftermath of the blowout in Miami and the release of Ryan Mallett.

There's been a lot of face-palming, groan-inducing, noose-tightening moments so far this season, too many to count. But however bad the team may be on the field, finding out that Bill O'Brien tried to release Ryan Mallett after the QB missed the team flight to Miami, only to be vetoed by general manager Rick Smith, is just the worst.

Brian T. Smith's report on the subject was likely exaggerated a bit, but no fan wants to hear that amidst an immensely disappointing season, the two men in charge aren't on the same page as to how to correct it.

So…