One vs. One: Comparing top LBs from 2016, 2017

Mark Pszonak contributed to this report.

With Singing Day in the rearview mirror and our national rankings shut down, we thought it would be fun to compare the top players at their position in 2016 to the top players at their position in 2017.

Today we look at the linebackers.

MORE ONE VS. ONE: QB | RB | WR/TE | OL | DL

The skinny: While Davis took official visits to Alabama, Auburn, Notre Dame and LSU, this recruiting battle always came down to the Crimson Tide and Tigers. Growing up minutes from Tuscaloosa and with his father having played for the Crimson Tide, it was too much for Auburn to overcome as he committed to Alabama on Signing Day. As with most freshmen, Davis redshirted in 2016 but will have an opportunity to make a statement during the spring. Anthony committed to Michigan later in the process as many expected from the start.

Farrell’s take: Davis clearly has the size and length advantage while Anthony is more active and aggressive. In the end, I’ll go with the player with the better physical attributes when it comes to projecting success in college and especially beyond.

Farrell’s verdict: Davis

The skinny: Smith was an early commitment to Clemson, before deciding to re-open his process so that he could take a closer look at a few other programs. After taking official visits to Clemson, Oregon, Maryland, LSU and Auburn, he re-committed to Clemson during the Under-Armour All-American Game. After enrolling during the spring and redshirting during the fall, Smith should be primed to showcase his talents this fall. Browning flirted with Alabama but committed to Ohio State after listing the Buckeyes near the top of his list for a long time.

Farrell’s take: These two are very similar in stature and can both play inside or outside linebacker at the next level. Smith is better off the edge as a blitzer, but I’ll take Browning’s complete skill set, including his ability in pass coverage.

Farrell’s verdict: Browning