Not Exactly Linebacker U

Indiana University has not had a marquee linebacker in quite some time.  In recent memory, they have had talented wide receivers, defensive ends and an electric quarterback.  However, you will be hard-pressed to think of a really good linebacker.  The Hoosiers have always stressed speed over size on their defenses.  This is especially true at linebacker.  That has made them very susceptible against opposing team's running attacks.  This season, things might be changing.  IU's starting LB trio weighs in at 231, 236 and 244 pounds.  I don't know how much the increased size will help against the run.  If they don't improve their tackling, all the size in the world won't matter.  

Weak Side Linebacker

-Will Patterson- Senior, 6'1", 236 lbs. from Lawrence North High School in Indianapolis

I went to high school with Patterson so I am little bit biased here.  He was always a really nice guy and someone who worked hard every single day.  He started the first ten games of last season before inuring his knee.  Patterson also had an injured wrist for all of spring practice.  He should be ready to go for the opener.

-Austin Carrington- Senior- 6'0", 223 lbs. from Leesburg, Virginia

Carrington had 28 tackles last year and he plenty of game experience after three seasons in the rotation.  

Middle Linebacker

-Matt Mayberry- Senior, 6'2", 244 lbs. from Darien, Illinois

Mayberry was the leader of this group last season.  He had 89 tackles including 8.5 tackles for loss.  He is not the most physically gifted player but he plays smart and is very important to the success of the defense.

-Darius Johnson- Sophomore, 6'0", 234 lbs. from Detroit, Michigan

Johnson had 13 tackles last season.  The majority of his playing time will come on special teams.

Strong Side Linebacker

-Tyler Replogle- Junior, 6'2", 231 lbs. from Centerville, Ohio

Replogle had a fantastic finish to last season when he took over for Geno Johnson.  He recorded 29 tackles in the last two games, including 19 against Purdue.  Coaches have been raving about Replogle all camp.  

-Chad Sherer- Redshirt Freshman, 6'0", 212 lbs. from Hamilton Heights, Indiana

Sherer needs to put on bulk if he is going to be an effective linebacker in the Big Ten.  

Coach Bill Lynch has said he thinks the linebackers are his best overall unit.  I would disagree with that because of the lack of proven depth.  However, the starting three LBs give IU a solid, veteran unit.

I will finish up my position analysis tomorrow with the defensive backs and safeties.  Also, go to peegs.com and watch the interviews of four of the incoming freshman for the IU Hoosiers basketball squad.  I am going to stay focused on football for now but I won't hesitate to touch on basketball news when it happens.  Jordan Hulls, Christian Watford, Bobby Capobianco and Derek Elston all seem like really good kids.  Again, go to peegs.com to check the interviews out.  Until next time, stay vigilant and God bless America.