Linebacker is seldom mentioned near the top of anyone’s list when discussing the most significant player(s) or position(s) on a football field or team, at least in terms of influencing the outcome of a game.
When Team A or Team B struggles and/or loses, linebackers are usually called out or made fun of for it, but they rarely get any credit when their team wins. While many people admire players like Ray Lewis, not many see even the best linebackers as franchise players or extremely influential players who can change the course of a game.
For proof of this, look no farther than Ohio State’s most recent national championship squad: Joshua Perry, a middle linebacker, led the 2014 Buckeyes in tackles with 124, but his name is
Although Darron Lee (an LB) has a case to be made as well, that essentially validates my position, doesn’t it? Despite having 33 more stops than Bell, the second-leading tackler for OSU, Perry’s name does not seem to be as revered as those of the aforementioned group.
**I know most ardent fans have pleasant memories of Perry, but you get the idea. If nothing else, let’s acknowledge that during his incredible career, the No. 37 jersey was not exactly a best-seller.
In summary, I believe that linebackers are consistently undervalued and/or underappreciated. Having said that, I would like to argue that one of the most fascinating narratives of Ohio State’s season will center around the LB position battle.
The Buckeyes currently have two fairly comparable groups of players to pick from who may eventually fill the open LB role (or roles, you never know): It’s not ideal to have both people with little and no experience, is it?
Third-year athletic wonder Sonny Styles appears to be the front-runner for the spot opposite Simon, but there’s the tiny, tiny problem that Styles is currently listed as a safety. Not only that, but when questioned about moving Styles to LB on a regular or full-time basis, Ohio State coaches have shown a lack of commitment. Yes, in theory, Styles as LB2 sounds fantastic. However, as of February 29th, he is a safety who has very little experience with anything.
