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beneichten · 09-22-2006, 11:12 AM

http://www.startribune.com/510/story/693565.html

Quote:

The shuffling along the Vikings defensive line is constant, occurring at the same frenetic pace with which the unit approaches each series.

Nose tackle Pat Williams is in for this play, replaced by Ross Kolodziej on the next. If defensive tackle Kevin Williams needs a break, Spencer Johnson dashes onto the field. Even rookie end Ray Edwards has been thrust into the rotation.

For defensive coordinator Mike Tomlin, it's all about productivity. Starter, reserve, rookie or veteran, if a linemen is dressed, he's going to see action.

"When we ask our big men to run the way we ask them to run, we have to play a lot of people so they can stay fresh," said Tomlin, who has employed an eight-man rotation. "Regardless of who is up and who is down, from an injury standpoint, if any defensive lineman in a helmet is going to help us win we are going to play them."

Players who in some systems would spend most of the day on the sideline are on the field at key moments. Starters and reserves both applaud the approach.