Inside the Loud House
Fansided

Syracuse Football 2020 Positional Preview: Linebackers

By Christopher Queripel

SYRACUSE, NY - SEPTEMBER 21: Sean Tyler #28 of the Western Michigan Broncos scores a touchdown during the third quarter against Lakiem Williams #46 of the Syracuse Orange at the Carrier Dome on September 21, 2019 in Syracuse, New York. Syracuse defeats Western Michigan 52-33. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images)
SYRACUSE, NY - SEPTEMBER 21: Sean Tyler #28 of the Western Michigan Broncos scores a touchdown during the third quarter against Lakiem Williams #46 of the Syracuse Orange at the Carrier Dome on September 21, 2019 in Syracuse, New York. Syracuse defeats Western Michigan 52-33. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
2 of 4
Next

Starters

Tyrell Richards

Richards is in the process of converting from defensive line to the linebacker position and could be crucial for the Syracuse defense.

In the new 3-3-5, if given the opportunity, then Richards can use his strength from the weakside to blitz the quarterback. Above everyone else, Richards should benefit the most out of this group from the new style of play.

In his first two years with the Orange, he recorded 30 tackles, including six for a loss. Richards has four sacks so far, but expect that number to increase this season. With more opportunities, look for Richards to get to the passer at a higher rate this season.

Steve Linton

Just like Richards, Linton is also transitioning from defensive end to linebacker. As a redshirt freshman, he will take on a lot of extra responsibility for the team. Linton will be on the cusp of being a starter or a back-up at the beginning of the year, but right now, he has the edge. In his redshirt season, he appeared in three games and added two tackles. Despite limited experience, his talent, and his 6-foot-5, 225-pound frame lends well to the position.

Mikel Jones

While Mikel Jones is young, he is one of the most experienced linebackers in this corps. As a freshman, he played in 12 games in 2019 and made four starts. His play earned him third-team freshman All-American honors.

He will hold down the middle linebacker spot for ‘Cuse this season and should be a lock for the starting role with his experience and skill. In year one, Jones totaled 38 tackles and ranked 10th on the squad. With personnel changes, it’s time for Jones to shine and take over the reins and he will have plenty of opportunities to do so.

Home/Syracuse Football