The linebacker position at LSU has been graced in the last few years by the likes of legend Trev Faulk, Dallas Cowboy Bradie James and Lionel Turner. However, the linebackers from the 2006 are a new breed of players. The speed of this line backing corps is amazing.

Leading the charge is junior outside linebacker Ali Highsmith. Highsmith, who is from Miami, played in all games his freshman year but started in nine of thirteen games his sophomore year. Last year, he ranked second on the team in tackles with 75, 36 of those were solo. Highsmith also lead the linebackers with 4 sacks and returned a fumble for a touchdown. Disregarding the stats, he is the only starting linebacker to return this year, and a leader among the defense. His stature is not exactly ideal for the typical NFL linebacker, yet what he lacks in size, he makes up in ability. Highsmith has become one of the big hitters for the Tigers. The junior is also on the Butkus award list for the nation’s best linebacker.

The middle linebacker slot is filled by junior talent Luke Sanders. The West Monroe product starts this year after seeing limited action the past two years. Standing at 6-5 and weighing around 230 pounds, Sanders size makes him very visible to opposing offenses. His strength is also spectacular with him being able to bench press over 500 pounds, making him one of the strongest players on the team. He did suffer a knee injury late last season but has recovered and regained the speed he lost. Sanders is also known for his dedication in the weight room, which reflects in his performance on the field.

The young gem of the linebackers is sophomore Darry Beckwith. Beckwith went to Parkview Baptist in Baton Rouge. The homegrown, athletic Beckwith has ability that is uncanny for a player his age. Statistically he is solid, but his ability to read offenses and make plays on the ball is impressive. His style compliments his linebacker counterparts because his best aspect is not his physical play, but his game comprehension. Also, Beckwith excels off the field being named to 2006 Freshman Academic Honor Roll. If Beckwith stays at LSU for the next two years, he will be more than ready to shine on the next level.

The final linebacker I will highlight is Jason Spadoni. Spadoni may possibly be the most athletic linebacker on LSU’s team. Spadoni started his career as a running back and has made a smooth transition to the linebacker position. He is not a typical size for a linebacker but that does not measure his ability. After playing a major role on special teams last year, look for Spadoni to make big tackles for the Tigers this year off the bench.

Also on the depth chart for the Tigers are freshmen Jacob Cutrera and Perry Riley. Their time will be limited this year but I expect them to play well when given the opportunity, and those names will surely ring bells in the future. Just as it is with almost every position, LSU has depth at the linebacker spot. The defense for the 2006 team is living up to its reputation of being stingy.

Contact Jonathan at sportseditor@b-now.com