After starting the season with a 2-0-1 record, it seemed like the Detroit Lions had finally put everything together under second-year head coach Matt Patricia. But after losing eight of their last nine games, as well as the services of star QB Matthew Stafford, the season is basically over.

With the team poised for its second-straight losing season and third without a playoff appearance, the team has made a decision on Patricia’s future.

According to Sports Illustrated, Patricia will be returning to the Lions for a third season at the helm.

Per the report, there is little to suggest Patricia is coaching for his job. In addition, Patricia appears to have the support of the players.

“There does not appear to be many signs that the Lions and Patricia are operating like they are coaching for their jobs,” one league source told Sports Illustrated Lions Maven. “The players who Patricia brought in speak very highly of him and he has strong support all over the league. If he is given enough time, the Lions will be competitive,” sources said.

Patricia was hired in 2018 after 14 years on the New England Patriots coaching staff. But like so many Bill Belichick disciples, things proved significantly harder once he was left to his own devices.

The Lions have not won a division title since 1993, and have not won a playoff game since 1991.

One can imagine that 94-year-old owner Martha Ford will want to see that trend change in Patricia’s third year.