Sunday, August 16, 2009
It has been reported that Sophomore linebacker Michael Mauti tore an ACL during a scrimmage. Mauti was expected by most to be a started in the linebacking core (if not at the start of the season then certainly by the end). Last year Josh Hull started at MLB in place of the injured Lee, and was competing with Mauti for the weak side OLB position. It appears now that Hull will be a starting OLB for the season opener. This is a tough break for the lions since Mauti is a gifted athlete and the next in line of great linebackers, but luckily the position has a lot of depth and the team can "fall back" on a starter from a year ago. Hull isn't as athletic as Mauti, but he has a great deal of experience and made great strides as the season progressed last year. Look for Stupar to get some reps on the weak side (currently is a strong side LB) and Bani Gbadyu as well. Most believe Lee will take over in the middle with Bowman as the strong side OLB leaving this competition for the weak side. All in all, not a lethal blow to the team. An injury to the secondary or the offensive line would have had more repercussions and fortunately Mauti can use a redshirt for this season and still play three more years if he chooses.
1 Comment:
That's a crushing blow. You are right, linebacker is one of the few positions where we are deep enough to afford an injury, but Mauti was one of the top 3 players I was looking forward to seeing this year. I really don't want to see any more Josh Hull than I have to. Maybe Stupar can step up. Mauti will be a great one from what I hear.
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