WILLIAMSBURG, Va. (March 25, 2014) - Today's spring practice update features the linebackers, and rising senior linebacker Airek Green recently sat down with TribeAthletics.com to discuss his offseason preparation as well as life off the field.
Below is a quick look at the Tribe's spring two-deep at the linebackers.
Defensive Coordinator / Linebackers Coach Trevor Andrews:
“With Luke Rhodes and Airek Green returning as all-conference level performers, our goal in the spring is going to be on identifying the third starter and in building depth. Overall, I want to see Luke and Airek assume leadership roles and bring the rest of the group along with them. I expect this unit to make an impact this fall.”
| Linebackers |
| Mike Linebacker |
#50 Luke Rhodes, Jr. (6-2, 242)
2013 Video Highlights
Earned first-team all-conference honors last season after ranking second on the team with 98 tackles ... Ranked 12th in the CAA with 8.2 tackles per game ... Possesses teh athleticism and experience to be one of the nation's top linebackers in 2014 ... Vocal leader of linebacking unit ... Brings intensity to all phases of program, as he excels in weight room and film room ... Strong, physical player with athleticism to play in space when necessary. |
#40 Ian Haislip, Jr. (6-2, 235)
Versatile player who will challenge for playing time at multiple linebacking positions ... Very physical and explosive player ... Standout special teams performer. |
#54 Brandon Louth, RFr. (6-2, 240)
Redshirted last season ... Possesses good size and strength ... Needs to use the spring to further acclimate to collegiate game and Tribe defensive system. |
Will Linebacker
|
#6 Airek Green, Sr. (6-0, 225)
2013 Video Highlights
Earned first-team all-conference honors last season after finishing the year with 82 tackles, 13.0 TFL, 4.0 sacks, three interceptions, seven PBU's, two forced fumbles, a fumble recovery and two defensive touchdowns ... Very competitive player who brings good speed, quickness and instincts to the edge of the Tribe defense ... Most experienced player in the group (22 starts the past two seasons) and will be counted on to be a key playmaker ... Leads by example. |
#52 Matt Vlissides, So. (6-0, 225)
Saw special teams reps as a redshirt freshman last season ... Brings tremendous work ethic both on and off the football field ... Maximizes his skills and will challenge for reserve role while continuing to contribute on special teams. |
| Nickle Linebacker |
#29 Marcus Harvey, So. (6-2, 210)
2013 Video Highlights
Reserve last season who saw action in 11 games and returned an interception 29 yards for a touchdown in the win at Lafayette ... Athletic player who excels playing in space ... Speed an physical attributes give him potential to be a threat as an edge rusher ... Skilled player who projects as a potential impact player as he continues to improve on alignments and assignments. |
#33 Stephen Lubnow, So. (6-0, 215)
Reserve who appeared in nine games last season ... Will provided depth as he challenges for special teams roll in the fall. |
#38 Mike Barta, RFr. (6-2, 170)
Redshirted last season ... Physical player who has long, athletic frame ... Will challenge for special teams reps this fall ... Adds valuable depth. |
