The Shape of Sprint:LB

The Mike Backer

These players are the heart and soul of their defenses. Often known as the “Mike” these inside backers excel in both run defense and pass coverage, while also serving as the defensive leader and main communicator. Their blend of athleticism, intelligence, strength, and leadership make them very effective defenders. No defense is complete with their main hammer roaming the middle.

(CSFL) CHC 15-18 LB Jonathan Baldwin 169tk 19.5tfl 3.5sacks 1int 1pbu

Baldwin is one of the best examples of what a great middle backer looks and plays like. Baldwin had a big barrel body and great height for the position. He played with a strength and physicality that made him hard to deal with. Opposing offensive linemen knew they were in for a tough work day whenever they had to climb to the second level. Baldwin also had the IQ that you want to see from your captain in the middle. He was able to set the coverage, make checks, and communicate with the entire defense. Baldwin ended his career as a Griffin all time great.

(MSFL) CCSJ LB Alexander Dellaechaie 135tk 29tfl 7.5sacks 1int 1pbu

Dellaechaie has been the main man in the middle for the Crimson Wave since the dawn of their program. A fierce defender Dellaechaie brings an intensity and aggression that every defensive coordinator would want from their middle linebacker. Coaches across every level want a mike backer that eats with their hands and Dellaechaie does just that. The rising senior is at his best when he is flowing downhill bring contact to ball carriers at or behind the line of scrimmage. With another season to add to his legacy Dellaechaie will go down as one of the best inside backers to ever play the game.

(CSFL) Mansfield 19-23 LB Matt Robert 270tk 37.5tfl 7.5sacks 1int 6pbu

Robert was a prolific tackling machine who led Mansfield in tackles for all 4 years he was a member of the team. He currently is the all time leader in tackles in sprint football history with 270. You don’t achieve such a feat by accident. Robert accumulated these tackles by using his instincts, IQ, and technique to dominate on the field. Robert showed great skill using his hands to shed blocks and different techniques to avoid defenders. Once the play got moving Robert had the wheels to go chase down ball carriers. Robert is one of the best examples of a dominant middle linebacker in sprint football.

(MSFL) Bellarmine(active) LB Caleb Murray 139tk 22tfl 4sacks 2int 3pbu

Murray is one of the most impressive linebackers in the game today. The stout mike backer is a steady force in the middle of the Bellarmine defense. Murray is at his best when he is flowing downhill making plays at or behind the line of scrimmage. He has a knack for stuffing inside runs and blowing up shorter passing plays in the middle. Murray’s relentless effort and pursuit paired with his physicality at the point of contact make him one of the great linebackers in sprint football.

(CSFL) Army 17-20 LB Tate Blessinger 93tk 20tfl 1.5sacks 2int

Blessinger was an intelligent and versatile linebacker who was one of the best defenders of his time in the CSFL. Blessinger was a relentless tackler. He demonstrated a high IQ which led him to him making plays where it appeared like he knew what has going to happen before the ball was snapped. Blessinger was also known as a physical blitzer. Running backs stepping up to block were in for a collision when Blessinger was in the game. The former Army great also excelled at covering every inch of turf sideline to sideline. Blessinger is one of the best backers to ever roam the middle for Army.