There are technically 3 main starters at linebacker on the depth chart. But with how much they will be blitzing and flying around the field, you may see as many as 6 in a consistent rotation.



Also in the mix will be 5th-year senior John Thompson (6-1, 239). Thompson saw action in 8 games last year, starting 3. Made 29 tackles in 07, also two tackles for loss, one fumble recovery, one interception and one pass breakup. He's a three-year letterman having played in 33 contest and recording 54 tackles in his career.
A couple other names to keep in mind, Jonas Mouton (So. 6-2, 230) and Brandon Herron (Fr. 6-2, 218).
Like I said, it could end up being a revolving door of players at LB as the season progresses. The key obviously is that we're young. Michigan has never really had big name LBs in the past. And it's likely that this core group won't stand out too much either. I don't mean to sound like I am bashing the guys we have, but by-in-large, Michigan is not Linebacker U.
Of course, much of that stigma comes from years and years of the same defensive philosophies. We've had some good ones, but very few great ones. Maybe they've been overshadowed by some great corner backs or defensive ends, but either way, Michigan fans can expect a pretty standard unit this year. They'll be faster, stronger...maybe a tad smarter in the new system, but they'll still be the typical tough hard-nosed LBs that people expect.
The dates at the top of your entries are barely visible
ReplyDeleteCtrl A then you can see the date.
ReplyDeleteCan't wait to see what teh Defense can do.