Michigan Coaches Clinic: Breaking down the Linebackers

Several of us went to the Michigan Coaches clinic and were able to watch the practices and drills. The first day was shorts and helmets, second day was full pads, and third day was scrimmage. Of course, the players need to continue to work hard and keep on developing, but this is what we saw so far this spring.

Linebackers:
This is a position in flux much of the spring. There were numerous combinations and different starters.

Mike Linebacker:
1a) Thompson:
He is good against the run, and especially good against inside running game. He is very strong at the point of attack. Limited lateral speed and does not scrap very well. Tends to get lost in coverage and is not very nimble in space. Thompson gets major props for always work ethic and always giving 100% on the field.

1b) Ezeh:
He is one of the hardest workers on the team. Plays and practices at very high level. He is very athletic with excellent movement skills. Scraps and makes plays sideline-to-sideline, also good in coverage. He is not as strong at point of attack as you would like. He could also use a good summer in the weight room. Being stronger would help him play at point of attack.

Sam Linebacker:
Evans:
He was injured near end of spring practice. Prior to his injury, he was working with first group. He is an excellent athlete with good speed and lateral movement. He needs to continue to get stronger and bigger.

Mouton:
He is possibly the best athlete among the linebackers. He combines speed with physical play that covers and plays well in space. He needs to get tons of reps to help catch up from prior injury problems. Also needs to gain strength and be tougher against the run.

Will Linebacker:
Panter:
One of the most improved players. At end of last year, I would have bet he would never be major contributor, but this spring he showed better movement and instincts for the game. He plays hard and has edge to his game that linebackers need. He needs to improve his coverage and play in space. Does not move laterally and needs to improve his scrapping, but this kids attitude and work ethic just has you cheering for him.

Herron:
He has good size and movement skills that plays hard and is physical. He needs to stop thinking and just play. He tends to be caught out of position do to his hesitating. A good summer of S&C would be a huge help.

written by CoachBt and ErocWolverine

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