Mark Pszonak contributed to this report.
The class of 2017 is signed and sealed, so as we look back on how programs did, we thought it would be interesting to rank the best 1-2 punches at each position. Today we take a look at the linebackers.
TOP ONE-TWO PUNCHES IN 2017: QB | RB | WR | TE | OL | DT | DE
1. MICHIGAN
The skinny: Singleton was a long-time Michigan lean, while Anthony picked Michigan over Auburn, Maryland, Penn State and Oklahoma in late December. Singleton is coming off a knee injury, so he may be brought along slowly, but Anthony should be thrown into the fire immediately.
Farrell’s take: These two will complement each other as Singleton is long, athletic and can cover a ton of ground while Anthony could play the Jabrill Peppers role if needed in the Michigan defense — he’s that talented. More likely, they will each play outside linebacker, with Singleton as a SAM and Anthony as a WILL, and each will have different roles with Anthony more likely to get after the quarterback as a blitzing linebacker.
2. GEORGIA
The skinny: Keeping both Hunter and McBride in-state was very important for Kirby Smart and the Bulldogs. McBride is coming off a knee injury, so it will be interesting to see how the Bulldogs deal with that, while Hunter has all the skill and potential to be make an impact in 2017.
Farrell’s take: Two very athletic linebackers here that will increase the defensive team speed once they get settled into their roles. Both are quick-twitch guys who not only cover ground but change direction and will be hard to get the corner on. Each likes to hit and they are both smart, instinctual linebackers who fill the lane.
3. ALABAMA
The skinny: The Crimson Tide further strengthened their outside linebacker group by landing Moses and Cowan. Pulling Moses away from LSU was another important Alabama recruiting victory, while Cowan’s arrival from South Florida solidifies the Tide’s standing in the Dade/Broward/Palm Beach area. It’s tough for true freshmen to gain playing time in Tuscaloosa, but both will surely get a long look.
Farrell’s take: Both are physically ready to play early for Alabama. Moses could play outside or inside. Cowan has had some off-field struggles, so maturity could take time, but he has the size and skill to dominate while Moses is an athletic freak whose ceiling is high at a position he’s still learning.
