Compare/Contrast the USC LBs

[Keith]

Found this at draftguys.com. Considering the Texans seem like strong candidates to select one of these three, thought this might be a good thread to start focusing on which one we want to target.

http://draftguys.com/index.php/artic...c_linebackers/

Trojan War: Breaking Down The USC Linebackers

by Cecil Lammey on 03/24/09

...This year the Trojans could see as many as 3 of their LBs go in the first round. This trio was part of a unit that held 8 opponents to single digits (including 3 shutouts) and finished the year 2nd in the nation in total defense. One LB was an immediate star, one LB had to battle injuries throughout his college career, and one LB had to walk on to this storied program even though he’s the son of a USC Hall of Fame football player. In Trojan War we’ll answer the question “What separates them as NFL talents, and how will teams value them in relation to each other?” ...

[Roy P]

I want Clay. I have no use for the other 2.

[edo783]

Originally Posted by Roy P

I want Clay. I have no use for the other 2.

While I ascribe to the same thought, I'm wondering why you would select Clay and why you don't see the others working for us.

[painekiller]

Rey Rey has to be in the middle, #1, and he can not cover well enough for the NFL. He is a 3-4 middle guy IMO.

Something about Cushing bothers me, can't put my finger on it. He does not jump out at me on tape.

Matthews has jump out on tape, he is hungry and has a unbelievable skills. His lack of experience as a starter is a moot point to me. UCS backups get plenty of playing time. And they practice against pro caliber players everyday, unlike most colleges.

[nunusguy]

Originally Posted by painekiller

His lack of experience as a starter is a moot point to me.

Matthews only starts his senior year while the other 2 LBs are 3-year starters at USC and you don't think that means anything ?

[mussop]

Originally Posted by nunusguy

Matthews only starts his senior year while the other 2 LBs are 3-year starters at USC and you don't think that means anything ?

Doesnt bother me either. So what if he was a late bloomer. The guy walked on and eventually worked his way into the starting lineup on one of the best college defenses in history. He wasnt given anything he took it. The fact is he was good enough to start when they were at there best. He wasnt just a complimentary player either, he made plays all over the field, big plays and lots of them. He has all the measurables and obviously the determination to succeed. All he needs is a Texans uniform.

[James]

Originally Posted by painekiller

UCS backups get plenty of playing time. And they practice against pro caliber players everyday, unlike most colleges.

And sometimes they become excellent starters in the pros . . .

[Roy P]

Originally Posted by edo783

While I ascribe to the same thought, I'm wondering why you would select Clay and why you don't see the others working for us.

I don't draft SAM LBs in the 1st round and that is what Cushing is. He is not a credible pass-rushing threat in the NFL. His tackling ability leaves a lot to be desired. In college he ran into people, but he won't be knocking down NFL players with that "technique" -- he'll actually have to tackle. If I were to "project" him I'd say he's somewhere between USC LB Dallas Sartz and Zak DeOssie.

Rey Rey reminds me of Trotter. Good against the run, but not the guy I want roaming sideline to sideline. Definitely not a 1st rounder. The hype machine has him as the next Ray Lewis, umm, that's not even close to reality.

Clay looks as if he's multi-dimensional. He has fluid hips in coverage, a high motor with pass-rushing ability, and most importantly, he wraps up when he tackles. I could envision him being a combination of Keith Brooking, Chad Greenway, and Julian Peterson. That would be worth a 1st round pick for this team.

[edo783]

Thanks Roy. I value your opinion on players, so I appreciate your reply.