We're going to miss #43 (Image: Hipple)
This is Part III in our look at 2007. Part I dealt with the offensive line, and Part II surrounded the pash rush. Part III looks at the linebackers.
How will the LB corps change / evolve?
-- We're losing three of our top 4 linebackers including defensive MVP Tony Taylor. Other than Taylor there has been a significant dropoff at the SAM and MLB spots since Van Gorder's departure two years ago.
In fact, there were many games where it seemed that we played 10 vs. 11 on defense given the near complete lack of production from our strong side linebacker (SAM) position. Brandon Miller had 16 solo tackles in 12 regular season games this year while Danny Verdun-Wheeler had 23 solo tackles. In other words, they combined to secure a little more than half as many solo tackles as Taylor without any sacks, only two forced fumbles and no interceptions on the season. Georgia has to get something meaningful out of this spot in 2007.
Richt recognized that we were a step slow at LB two years ago when he signed speed, speed and more speed at the linebacker positions. We've got fast guys that are redshirting, and we've got Dewberry and Ellerbe itching to contribute. This group will be an interesting one to watch as there will be no shortage of talent. But it will be very, very young.
PWD
(Note: There is a whacky rumor out there that Miller might look towards the NFL next week. I don't buy that for a minute. The NFL doesn't sniff a guy that produces so incredibly little over a three year career no matter how fast he runs. If that's true, his agent is worse than Brian Van Gorder's.)
6 comments:
While I agree that B.Miller leaving is insane on many levels (like the fact he couldn't crack the starting lineup against VT) - I really wouldn't be surprised if he left. A lot of expectations (mostly un-met) and a stable of hungry youngsters behind him (Dent, Hebron, Ellerbe, Gamble etc).
I think someone needs to sit down with some of our players and explain that not everyone is good enough to make it in the NFL. If you aren't good enough to be a starter in college what makes you think you are good enough to make an NFL roster made up of the BEST players from all the college rosters.
Just my little rant, but I just think guys like Miller and Ware need to use that scholarship to get a good degree and just accept the fact that life probably doesn't include playing football after college.
File this under "mindless dribble", but could a reason that some of these guys are willing to leave because they don't have an academic future?
I have no idea of Miller or Ware's academic status (pure hypothetical), but if I was a guy who was probably going to flunk out or not meet the required credits, plus split a lot of playing time, the thought of bolting might cross my mind. I probably wouldn't do it, but then again, I'm not those guys.
Do you think that could be it?
Miller was an excellent student in HS that came in fully qualified with high SAT scores.
I doubt that's the issue.
Ware and Charles Johnson were/are both on track to graduate, also. per coach richt
Yeah, the AJC article about Ware leaving said he was on track to graduate next December, so he's actually ahead on his degree.
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