The Detroit Lions roster in 2006 was a mix of veteran players and young talent. The team had a new head coach in Rod Marinelli and was hoping to turn things around after a disappointing 2005 season. Although the Lions didn't have a winning season in 2006, there were some standout players and moments throughout the year. Let's take a closer look at the Lions roster in 2006 and what made that season memorable.
The Offense
On offense, the Lions had some key players that helped them put up points. Quarterback Jon Kitna was in his first season with the team and had a solid year, throwing for over 4,000 yards and 21 touchdowns. The running back duo of Kevin Jones and T.J. Duckett combined for over 1,300 rushing yards and 9 touchdowns. Wide receiver Roy Williams was also a major contributor, with over 1,300 receiving yards and 7 touchdowns.
Despite these individual performances, the Lions offense struggled to consistently put points on the board. They finished the season with a 3-13 record and ranked 27th in the league in points scored. The offensive line struggled with injuries and inconsistency, which made it difficult for the skill players to make an impact. However, there were still some memorable moments throughout the season, such as the team's 44-7 victory over the Buffalo Bills in Week 9.
The Defense
On the defensive side of the ball, the Lions had some talented players but struggled to consistently stop opposing offenses. Defensive end Kalimba Edwards led the team with 5.5 sacks, while linebacker Ernie Sims had a solid rookie season with 124 tackles and 1 interception. Cornerback Dre' Bly also had a solid year, with 6 interceptions and 1 touchdown.
Despite these individual performances, the Lions defense struggled to keep opposing offenses in check. They finished the season ranked 27th in the league in points allowed and gave up an average of 27.3 points per game. However, there were still some standout moments throughout the season, such as the team's 20-17 victory over the Dallas Cowboys in Week 14.
The Special Teams
The Lions special teams unit had some standout players in 2006. Kicker Jason Hanson had another solid season, making 21 of 22 field goal attempts and all 30 of his extra point attempts. Punter Nick Harris also had a solid year, averaging 43.2 yards per punt. Wide receiver Eddie Drummond was the team's primary kick and punt returner, averaging 24.7 yards per kick return and 8.3 yards per punt return.
Although the special teams unit had some talented players, they didn't have any standout moments throughout the season. They finished the year ranked 18th in the league in kick return average and 26th in punt return average. However, they didn't have any major mistakes or mishaps that cost the team games.
The Coaching Staff
The Lions coaching staff in 2006 was led by first-year head coach Rod Marinelli. Marinelli had previously been the defensive line coach for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and was known for his no-nonsense approach. He brought that same attitude to the Lions, emphasizing hard work and discipline.
Although the Lions didn't have a winning season under Marinelli in 2006, there were signs of improvement. The team was more competitive in games and played with a higher level of intensity. Marinelli's leadership and emphasis on fundamentals helped lay the foundation for future success.
Conclusion
The Detroit Lions roster in 2006 was a mix of talented players and young up-and-comers. Although the team didn't have a winning season, there were still some standout performances and moments throughout the year. The coaching staff led by Rod Marinelli emphasized hard work and discipline, setting the stage for future success. While the 2006 season may not have been a memorable one in terms of wins and losses, it was an important step forward for the Lions organization.
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