Detroit Lions strategy

The Detroit Lions employ a variety of strategies during play. Since the arrival of head coach Rod Marinelli, the Lions have utilized a 4-3 defense, referred to commonly as the "Tampa 2" or "Cover 2".
Offensive system
Not applicable.
Running game
Not applicable.
Passing game
Prior to 2008, the Lions used the schemes of offensive coordinator Mike Martz. He was let go prior to 2008, and they intended to focus more on the run.
By drafting wide receivers in the first round (three consecutive years and four first round picks on wide receivers in five years), they figured to have a potent passing attack, but that has not materialized. Of those four receivers, only one, Calvin Johnson is still on the team and two out of the four are out of the league.
After losing John Kitna and Dan Orlovsky to injury, the Lions signed free agent Daunte Culpepper and threw him into the starting lineup with only a few days to learn the system. A few games later, Drew Stanton suffered a concussion while playing with the game already deemed to be a blowout.
Other teams running similar offensive systems
Other teams running similar defensive systems
The Tampa 2 system is used by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where it was originated by coach Tony Dungy, based on the defense used by the Pittsburgh Steelers in his playing days in the 70s. Dungy also took the system to the Indianapolis Colts. Other teams running some form of it include the Buffalo Bills, Chicago Bears, Kansas City Chiefs and Minnesota Vikings.
Comparison to other 4-3 systems
Philosophy
The failure of the Lions to succeed with this system should not be viewed as a failing of the system. Marinelli has opined that the system is sound, and it is more a failure of execution than design.

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