We arrive to another position of strength in the Big Ten as this conference is full of stud legitimate middle backers that can take the head off of ball carriers. This conference has at least four legitimate cases to be made for this list, but one of those guys is a transfer.
I gave the edge to the backers that return to defenses that they are already familiar with. These three names are fairly unique and one Buckeye does make an appearance, but that should not be surprising. We also have a Wolverine and Spartan appear. Let’s dive into the top inside linebackers in the Big Ten.
3
Junior Colson, Michigan
Why the Pick
Junior Colson is the leader of what is expected to be one of the most dominant defenses in the country. Colson was All-Big Ten last season and has a real opportunity to be an All-American in 2023.
Going to see a lot more of this from the returning Freshman All-American LB Junior Colson 〽️〽️ pic.twitter.com/48WK36kBU5
— Beat (@michigan_beat) August 8, 2022
2
Tommy Eichenberg, Ohio State
Why the Pick
Tommy Eichenberg is an impressive tackler who refuses to give up an inch once he hits the ball carrier. Eichenberg does a great job of fighting through traffic to limit run plays. Eichenberg has underrated speed to go sideline to sideline.
Tommy Eichenberg is the heart and soul of the @OhioStateFB defense.
✅ Nose for the ball
✅ Physicality
✅ Block shedding
✅ Solid tackler
✅ Solid range and good pursuit❓Pass rushing
❓Adequate athlete
❓Overzealous at times
❓Man coverage pic.twitter.com/tKOZFXFp4o— NFL Draft Files (@NFL_DF) June 29, 2023
1
Cal Haladay, Michigan State
Why the Pick
Cal Haladay is the definition of a middle linebacker with a throwback mentality and play style. Another strong finisher who rarely misses tackles, Haladay also sheds blocks better than most.
#CFB returns in 27 days
LB Cal Haladay – Michigan State pic.twitter.com/MyASlnEUkQ
— NCAAF Nation (@NCAAFNation247) July 31, 2022
