Linebackers Looking to Play with an Edge

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By: Charlie Duffy
IUHoosiers.com

Bloomington, Ind. – The key to the linebacker group this season will be playing at the point of attack. The Big Ten East is loaded with big physical football teams and stopping the run will be at a premium. Linebackers coach William Inge, who said the team was lucky to practice in the high heat today, emphasizes that every day on the practice field and in the film room.

"The big focus for us is always going to be playing with great effort, managing ourselves at the point of attack and doing a great job of being able to get takeaways in pass coverage," Inge said. "We have been doing great in this first week and we are continuing to strive in trying to keep our edge as we move forward."

Fifth-year senior linebacker Dawson Fletcher understands that his playing time depends on his ability to play at the point of attack. Fletcher has transitioned from safety to linebacker during his Hoosier career, and admits that the position change is still a work in progress.

"Personally, I need to keep working on my run fits, my footwork and the simple fundamentals," Fletcher said. "Coming from safety to linebacker is a little different feel with playing in the box. I like it, but I have to continue to work on it."

When defensive coordinator Tom Allen came in, he changed the defensive scheme. The change removed one linebacker from the field in base personnel. This has led to increased competition.

"The biggest thing with our Mike linebacker is we are looking for guys that can takeover and have ownership of the defense," Inge said. "They know they have got to get the defense called, get the line adjusted and be the quarterback on the field."

Playing for Coach Allen comes with two responsibilities: understanding the scheme and playing with an edge. The linebacker spot is one of the positions where playing with a chip on your shoulder is vital to success.

"That is what it is all about," Inge said. "The number one thing that we have got to do is play with an edge. You have to play with an edge, you have to be hungry, you have to want it, you have to want to be the guy at the point of attack and you have to have laser-like focus."

Fletcher loves the new defensive philosophy. He believes that playing with an edge and feeding off of the passion and energy of Coach Allen will yield a much better defense.

"I like that Coach Allen has a bunch of energy," Fletcher said. "The team is really picking it up, and that is something we need, especially in the Big Ten. I am really excited about the results we are going to have this year."

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