Bacon: With Patricia and Quinn reunited, Lions have a bright future ahead

Stateside’s conversation with John U. Bacon, Michigan Radio’s sports commentator.

Between a wild weekend with the Red Wings and coaching change-ups at the Lions, there’s a lot going on in the world of Michigan sports.

John U. Bacon, Michigan Radio’s sports commentator, joined Stateside to talk about the week’s news.

Listen above for the full conversation, or read highlights below.

On the Red Wings’ wild weekend

The Red Wings had a roller coaster weekend. Against the Washington Capitals on Sunday, the Red Wings blew a three goal lead and fought back with a goal in overtime, winning 5-4. But on Friday, against the New York Islanders, another overtime resulted in a 6-7 loss. When forward Tyler Bertuzzi sat out for a five minute penalty, the Islanders scored four goals.

“In a five minute major, you stay in the entire five minutes no matter how many they score,” said Bacon. “And the answer is they scored four. Four.” Despite scoring three in the third period to equalize the score, the Islanders scored one in overtime.

“We don’t know how much is roster, how much is [Coach Jeff Blashill], how much is experience, et cetera because he has not coached anywhere else in the NHL before,” Bacon said. However, he added, it’s already February, and by now there should be more synergy between coaching staff and players, especially when it comes to knowing what will land a player a five minute penalty.

On the Lions’ new coaching

Now that Matt Patricia has officially assumed the position of head coach and General Manager Bob Quinn has extended his contract for two years, what will this reunion of New England Patriots staff hold for the Lions?

“You’ve got two professionals who are from a first-class program,” Bacon said. “They know what they’re doing, they’ve got a track record. This is the best chance the Lions have had in my lifetime to field a consistent winner.”

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