Lions DT Shaun Cody on Hondo's House tonight. Read more about Cody here.

Former Trojan turned Lion looks to make impact in 2006 By Justin Mangan ÂThe Detroit Lions defensive line consists of a core group of dominating and talented

Former Trojan turned Lion looks to make impact in 2006

By Justin Mangan

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The Detroit Lions defensive line consists of a core group of dominating and talented players that make up the deepest position of the team. Looking back to 2005, the NFL Draft gave Lions fans’ reason to look forward to the future as talent was drafted at the defensive line. The Lions second round pick, the defensive tackle from the USC Trojans, Shaun Cody, displayed his talent in his rookie year and is now ready to make an impact in only his second NFL season. What makes Cody special is the size (6’4”, 293), and his quickness ability that enables him to either line up under tackle or at defensive end. Being a player this versatile can only lead to continued success for the Lions forefront. When asked what position he prefers, Cody replies by playing whatever position the team needs. Being a former USC Trojan who had great winning success with Cody in uniform, this outlook on the game of football is what the Lions need; simply being, a player who wants to win. Beginning his career as a Trojan, the team went a meager 6-6, however by the time his career ended Cody had a National Title under his belt.

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Cody began his NFL career sharing time with defensive tackles Shaun Rogers and Dan Wilkinson. While Rogers was unavailable because of injures during last season, Cody filled in for several games. Now, entering his second year with the Lions he will be focused on defensive tackle. Playing next to 2006 Pro-Bowler Shaun Rogers, Rogers will take up most of the blocking from the opposition. Having a guy like Rogers on your side can only help, as teams will heavily focus on double teaming the tackle. For as most of us know, a rare talent like Rogers can heavily impact a game. By applying the double team, this allows Cody to become single blocked throughout the game. Thus giving Cody the ability to wreck havoc in the backfield, especially with his quickness. His quickness will give him the ability to gain the edge and a good burst to close to close gaps. Lions first year head coach Rod Marinelli believes that Cody will fit their new defense well, especially with his aggressive defensive philosophies. What makes Cody a special player is his ability to hold pursuit. On plays going away from the defensive lineman, his continued efforts on the field make no tackle unrealistic. By watching Cody on the field, it is not hard to grasp his true passion of the game.
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As of now, the defensive line consists of Shaun Rogers, Dan Wilkinson (who has considered retirement), and Cory Redding and James Hall at the ends. With a rotation that includes ends Jared DeVries, Kalimba Edwards along with defensive tackles Marcus Bell and Cody, depth will not be a problem. If Wilkinson does choose to retire, it is likely that Cody will take his starting spot on the line.Whether or not Cody does begin the season starting on the defensive wall, his success in his rookie season only serves as an appetizer of things to come. Give this defensive lineman a few years in the league while teamed up with Shaun Rogers, and there is no telling what destruction the duo will cause for NFL quarterbacks.