That's just part of his job.
Ever since he took over the starting role in Week 2 of his rookie season in 2003, no one's done it better than Koppen.
No one, with the notable exception of Tom Brady, has been as reliable, as knowledgeable, or as indispensable.
So when Koppen went down in the first half of the 34-31 overtime loss to the Jets with an injured elbow, it was a stark reminder of just how reliable and knowledgeable and indispensable he's been.
"Oh, very much," said Russ Hochstein, who was pressed into action at center against the Jets. "He's a big reason for a lot of the success that we've had around here. So, definitely, it's a reminder that injuries are a part of the game and we all need to be ready to go when our time is called. But, definitely, you always hope he is on the field.
"Dan's a smart player," Hochstein added. "He's dependable, consistent, and we're glad to have him in there all the time."
Koppen was listed as questionable in yesterday's injury report, though he fully participated in practice. He will be needed against a Dolphins defense that had four sacks (three by Joey Porter) during a 38-13 win over the Patriots in Week 3.
"We've got some big weeks ahead of us," said Koppen. "Miami is playing really well, playing really good on defense, and they got a lot of guys who can make plays in there, so it's going to be a tough challenge for us on Sunday, and we've got to bring our best game down there."
Koppen knows the Patriots are capable of generating more than just 14 first downs and 216 yards of total offense (on 59 plays), as they did in the last meeting against the Dolphins.
He has witnessed the maturation of Cassel, who established career highs against the Jets in passing yards (400), passing attempts (51), and rushing yards (62). Cassel also tied his career best with three touchdown passes, including a 16-yarder to Randy Moss that tied the score with one second left.
"Matty's been here for a while and he knows the system," Koppen said. "It's about getting him reps and experience and he's growing each week and learning from everything he's done. He's doing well."
Did Cassel show something in the Jets game?
