5 Reasons The Detroit Lions D-Line Will Live Up To Expectations In 2013
By Josh Albee
2. New Life Blood
May 10, 2013; Allen Park, MI, USA; Detroit Lions defensive end Ezekiel Ansah (94) stands next to Devin Taylor (92) during rookie mini camp at Lions training facility. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports
In 2012, the second season of having Suh, Vanden Bosch, Williams, Avril, and Fairley was not as productive as it should have been. At times it seemed that the defensive line randomly disappeared throughout the 60 minutes of a game. Vanden Bosch put a lot less pressure on the quarterback, and together the DEs seemed to be run out of the picture on the majority of the plays. Stopping the run became more of an issue than expected, and the sack numbers were no better.
Maybe it was a combination of age and apathy. Cliff Avril had been in an awkward situation with the organization after failing to land his big contract. Needless to say it appeared at times that he just didn’t gel with the line, despite remaining a rather productive defensive end. With a fresh new rotation of defensive ends and tackles, the defense might have a more excited and urgent energy this year.
Ziggy Ansah is out to prove himself as a number 5 overall draft pick. Jason Jones is excited to work in a familiar scheme with his former Titans coach Jim Schwartz, yet have a new and talented supporting cast. Willie Young also has to prove that he was worth keeping over Lawrence Jackson, and there seems to be enough playing time to give him a comfortable chance at doing so.
Most of all, Fairley has been chomping at the bit to become the full-time starter beside Suh. With this opportunity from week 1, the defensive line is going to be ready to play.