what do you guys and gals think of our linebacker play thus far? Last year to me, our linebackers were the low point of our defense. Chavis is known for his linebackers, and i am wondering if his style is to not shoot the gaps. This year, i think the linebackers have made some great plays, but they have struggled alot in coverage, and flocking to the ball. Kelvin Sheppard has missed so many tackles this year, Perry Riley makes good plays and then struggles in coverage. Cutrera has been really good, he has missed a few tackles, but overall i think he has done well, as has Harry Coleman. Whats the deal with the Georgia boys? I think we need to see more Ryan Baker, and would it be a bad idea to get Mingo some action, being Coleman and Riley are gone after this season?
Per the article posted in another thread: Miles warns opponents it will be costly to load up against the run
Better play than last year, for sure, but that's not saying much. Bottom line, we don't get impact play from our LBs (minus the Cutrera play vs Washington). We need some forced fumbles, qb sacks, etc. Overall, I would grade the unit as a C.
They're playing better in terms of being in better position to make plays, but still missing a lot of tackles. It makes me wonder if they stress hand strength when doing strength and conditioning. Where's the effort to grab the ball carrier and hold on for dear life? Just missing tackles, but I like the effort much better.
Sporadic. Coleman has been a super bright spot. Brilliant move for him. Riley playing much better, Shepard a little better, and disappointing that Cutrera is hurt. Overall they are better, but so much room for improvement. Since we seem to be lacking a real disruptive lineman as in years past, our LBs will have to play better - and quickly.
Where is Ryan Baker? A lot of us were calling for him last year (especially after his great hits on STs), and still, we haven't seen him much. I guess he isn't progressing as well as we'd like?
he was in on the goal line stand, and actually created the first contact on 4th down with Chad Jones finishing him off. I don't know, maybe he isn't, i bet he can cover better than sheppard or riley can.
