Linebackers:
44 David Harris 5th./Sr.
49 Johnny Thompson Jr./So.
37 Chris Graham Jr./Jr.
46 Brandon Logan So./So.
6 Prescott Burgess Sr./Sr.
2 Shawn Crable Sr./Jr.
Or OLB 44 James McKinney So./Fr.
Or OLB 56 Lamarr Woodley Sr./Sr.
OR OLB 42 Chris McLaurin So./Fr.
Fall
Cobrani Mixon
Brandon Graham
Quintin Patilla
Obi Ezeh?
2005 review:
This group struggled throughout much of 2005 and was very inconsistent. David
Harris had a very good year in terms of defending against the run but wasn't
as good in pass coverage. He didn’t exhibit the same great instincts he
has defending the run and it opened up seams for opposing offenses to exploit.
Prescott Burgess was inconsistent but was given a very difficult task. He was
split out in a cornerback depth in some sets and for his size was at a disadvantage
in terms of range capability. Overall, you could make a case he was the teams
most complete linebacker over Harris because he is much better at defending
the pass. Chris Graham showed great athleticism but also that he still needs
to be coached up. His pursuit angles were either too steep or shallow and he
took himself out of quite a few plays. He has excellent effort and physical
skill but needs to improve his ability to read his keys. John Thompson had a
standout game against Iowa but still needs to improve his pass coverage ability
to see the field more consistently. This group was another big reason Michigan
didn’t defend the run well and overall was a sub par year for the linebacking
crew.
Grade=C-
2006 preview:
Much like the defensive line, things will get sorted out here in the fall.
David Harris may be the only one whose job is safe and there will be competition
and experimentation in this group. Look for several defensive ends to get looks
at outside linebackers if the team mixes in a 3-4 front. Chris McLaurin has
bulked up in his freshman season while still maintaining his excellent quickness.
I expect McLaurin to challenge for time in the rotation if he continues to progress
well. Chris Graham and Brandon Logan will compete for the weak side job in the
4-3 front. John Thompson is also poised to challenge for more playing time at
both MIKE and WILL.
One thing to watch for in the spring is the battle between Prescott Burgess
and Shawn Crable. Crable is coming into the spring with a lot of momentum and
hungry for playing time, while Burgess could be vulnerable with the staff change.
It should be of the hottest position battles heading into the fall. True freshman
Brandon Graham could also challenge for playing time if he comes to Michigan
in shape and ready to go. Expect new coach Steve Szabo to focus on improving
the fundamentals of this group and install a more hardworking work ethic.