There were quite a few posts last year that were critical of our LB play. Some deserved and some I don't think so. Here is my take (remember, I'm a "glass half full" guy).
Idowu played solid all year.
Zeise learned a lot on the fly. He made mistakes early, but progressed as the year went on and was playing at a pretty high level by the end of the year.
Brightwell was somewhat of a disappointment to me. I expected more play making from him, but he was playing out of position all year.
2018 should be a very good year for this crew. The starters all have another year under their belt. This will be especially helpful for Brightwell and Zeise since last year was their first as a starter (I know Zeise started the opener in 16, but had a season ending injury). We should have solid depth at LB as well with Wirginis, Pine and Reynolds.
A much overlooked area that will allow LB improvement in 2018 is the play of the D-line. We have a young, talented group of D-lineman, especially D-tackles. I think our line will be much better this year. They will be stronger and more experienced. This will hopefully keep the LBs clean and allow them to make plays.
All in all, I expect very solid LB play in 2018.
Idowu played solid all year.
Zeise learned a lot on the fly. He made mistakes early, but progressed as the year went on and was playing at a pretty high level by the end of the year.
Brightwell was somewhat of a disappointment to me. I expected more play making from him, but he was playing out of position all year.
2018 should be a very good year for this crew. The starters all have another year under their belt. This will be especially helpful for Brightwell and Zeise since last year was their first as a starter (I know Zeise started the opener in 16, but had a season ending injury). We should have solid depth at LB as well with Wirginis, Pine and Reynolds.
A much overlooked area that will allow LB improvement in 2018 is the play of the D-line. We have a young, talented group of D-lineman, especially D-tackles. I think our line will be much better this year. They will be stronger and more experienced. This will hopefully keep the LBs clean and allow them to make plays.
All in all, I expect very solid LB play in 2018.
