Early Look Ahead - Linebackers

Dede Lattimore and his fellow linebackers will be one of the many strengths of the defense in 2011. (Picture:www.gousfbulls.com)

The early look ahead series continues as we take a look at the linebacker position. Historically, one of the best productive positions on the Bulls defense, the 2010 linebacking squad lived up to the expectations and solidified the defense. Coming into the 2011 season, the Bull return most of their starters and have some new faces that will be in the mix come this fall. Many believe this could be the strength of the defense. Let's see who will be stepping in this season. [keep reading]

The Bulls lost Jacquain Williams and Sabbath Joseph to graduation, but return several key players from the 2010 team. Sam Barrington (6'1" 225-pounds), Mike Lanaris (6' 232-pounds), and All-Big East freshman DeDe Lattimore (6'2" 230-pounds) are all back and the starters heading into the season. Barrington is a solid, all-around linebacker and has improved his game in both the run stop and passing situations. Lanaris is an enforcer in the middle and has become a great weapon on goal line situations. DeDe Lattimore emerged as a monster on defense and seemed to be all over the field making plays. He will be even better this season and could be a 1st All Big East performer.

There are plenty of other players that will get their playing time as well this year. Curtis Weatherspoon and Hans Louis will get onto the field and should give the Bulls some depth and skill. Reshard Cliett, a former safety when recruited, is still only a freshman but has been adding weight and should be on the field this season (Snyder is very, very high on this young man).

There are also some new faces in town as well that could be in the mix to get playing time. JUCO transfer Mike Jeuene enrolled early and appears in the mix for playing time (Bulls have a great history with JUCO players coming in and making an impact). Freshman Antoine Pozniak enrolled early and is working out with the team this Spring. He may get some playing time depending on how well he develops over the summer and fall. Zack Bullock is also enrolling in the fall, but will probably redshirt this season (due to depth at the position now).

Overall, the Bulls have a very solid corps of linebackers that will help anchor the defense and excel in the blitz schemes under year two of Mark Snyder. The Bulls will have a great defense once again this season and hope it will lead them to the Big East title.