Bill Belichick says the New England Patriots didn't know about Matt Patricia's 1996 rape case ... but is voicing his support for the Detroit Lions head coach.
"The New England Patriots were not aware of the matter which recently came to light," Belichick said Thursday.
"For 14 years in our organization, Matt conducted himself with great integrity and is known to be an outstanding coach, person and family man. We have always been confident in Matt’s character and recommended him highly to become the head coach of the Detroit Lions.