Continuing to take a look at the defensive side of the ball, the Panthers may see a shuffle within their linebacker corps to open the spring. Within the 3-4 hybrid scheme employed by defensive coordinator/mad scientist John Thompson, the LBs are required to be mobile, tackle well and be able to drop in coverage.
Outside Linebacker
Senior Jake Muasau
RS Sophomore Allen McKay
Inside Linebacker
RS Senior Louie Muasau
Sophomore Cole Moon
Inside Linebacker
Junior Qwontez Mallory
Senior Evan Bostic
Outside Linebacker
RS Sophomore Robert Ferguson
RS Sophomore Mark Hogan
RS Junior Akeen Felder
*Projected Starters in Bold
Analysis
This unit is an area of concern entering spring practice as poor tackling lead to many long runs in 2010 and contributed to the inability to get off the field on 3rd down. Fortunately, the Panthers were able to add instant contributor Mallory from Georgia Military College who is bigger, faster and able to make plays in space. This group may see some serious player movement from last year’s roster. Between disciplinary issues (Femi Opanubi has already been kicked off the team and Evan Bostic missed time in at least 2 games in 2010 due to academic and off the field issues and will miss the first week of Spring practice) to possible attrition, this group may have the most names shifting out of the rotation of any this spring. OLB Brad Chahoy was a contributor on special teams has given up football and will not be on the team. ILB Trey Ennis has exhausted his eligibility.
The younger players and new addition will have to step up and solidify a group that is filled with question marks. Who steps up and provides leadership amongst the group?