The Power Of The USC Linebacker

NFL News - July 13, 2009 - Written by Ryan

The University of Southern California has become known for it's production of NFL players in the NFL draft. Besides the number 5th overall pick quarterback Mark Sanchez the USC Trojans also sent all three starting Linebackers into the 2009 NFL draft and all three were selected within the first 40 picks. Astonishing accomplishment for the Trojan football team who is primarily know for it's offense and their ability to score the ball. The question is which one of the 3 USC linebackers will have the best season for their new NFL football team?

The Houston Texans selected Brian Cushing with the 15th overall pick in the 2009 NFL draft. Cushing probably got selected to play for the best defense out of all three players and a strong candidate to have the best year as a rookie. The Texans have spent an array of first round draft picks on the defensive side of the ball in the last 4 or 5 years. Brian Cushing continues that trend adding to an already good defensive team. Cushing should see plenty of playing time in his 2009 rookie campaign, look for Cushing to make a big splash in 2009. 

The Green Bay Packers selected outside linebacker Clay Mathews with the 26th pick overall. Mathews produced well for the Trojans in 2008 stopping the run and now joins a division known for it's running ability. For this reason alone Mathews may amass the most tackles out of all three USC linebackers in 2009. Mathews will be used heavily in run and pass rush situations as the Packers will try to utilize his strengths on the field. Mathews will have to adjust to the cold winters in Wisconsin in December.

Rey Maualuga Might have the toughest job of them all. Selected with the 38th pick overall Maualuga will be playing NFL football for the Cincinnati Bengals in 2009. The Bengals have struggled on defense in the past years and Bengals fans hope Rey Maualuga can become the beacon of change for franchise in the future. The Bengals have no supporting cast to help Maualuga so his numbers might not reflect his effort at the end of the season. Look for Maualuga to see more interceptions and drop backs than the rest of his former teammates, meaning less tackles.

All three linebackers showed how effective they can be in college and usually the linebacker position transitions well from collegiate play to the Professional ranks. Still i see Brian Cushing making the biggest impact for his team in 2009. The Texans have built a good defense over the last few years and Brian Cushing is just another perfect fit to the puzzle. The Texans just might have a chance at the playoffs in 2009 if they can start playing physical defense.