With the loss of Matt Tofano to injury, the already big question mark over the Columbia linebacker corps got a lot bigger this week.
But now, we know a little more about a unit that needs to replace all of its starters and could determine whether the Lions have a good or bad season in 2017.
The latest release from the athletic department confirms long-held beliefs that sophomores Jalen Williams and Michael Murphy will be two of the three starting linebackers. This is no surprise as both were impressive as freshmen and were two of the most prized pieces of Head Coach Al Bagnoli's first full recruiting class.
Some of us were surprised that Williams, who was so impressive in training camp and scrimmages last year, didn't get more varsity playing time. But he was playing behind Columbia's best defender in Gianmarco Rea, and he had a phenomenal season. Plus, the coaches also clearly wanted Williams to bulk up more, which he has done.
Murphy got into more regular action as a LB last season, and I thought he moved incredibly fast during the Penn game especially,
The problem is Tofano, whom I can now say was the third projected starter, is now not an option. That means junior Sean White and senior Parker Tobia will have to be the next men up. But I think they will be on a figurative short leash as freshman Justin Woodley gets more up to speed. We already knew Woodley was one of, if not the top, recruits in this freshman class. But he won't have the luxury Williams had to develop for a year before he's really needed. Don't be surprised if Woodley is starting by the Princeton game. Fellow freshman and another top recruit Carson Powell could move up the depth chart too.
The number one factor for Columbia's fortunes this season remains the play and health of QB Anders Hill. But these linebackers must step up now more than ever. The talent is certainly there, if not the experience. Luckily, the other two parts of the defense on the line and in the secondary are filled with veterans who should be able to fill that void. But that will only take the Lions defense so far.
Let's who's ready for the challenge.
1 comment:
Jake, Murphy reminds me a little of the pre-injury Alex Gross in his speed and overall game. I actually think that this group of LBs, including the first years, is going to be even better than last year's group by the end of the year. The first year class has some real talent, and I have always thought that Jalen Williams has all Ivy potential.
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