Freshmen Standouts: LB’s & DB’s

Today's piece centers around some of the top freshmen linebackers &amp; defensive backs in the state of Ohio. All were varsity contributors and made their presence known in their first year within each program. The potential for this group is through the roof, and don't be surprised if you see a few of these prospects land FBS offers in the future. With that being said, here's who you need to know! <hr /> <strong><em>OLB: Dimarion Gill, 6'3", 205, Lutheran West</em></strong> An explosive pass rusher with a great get-off and exceptional bend. Gill was a production machine as a freshman, totaling 15.5 sacks in his first varsity season! He shows active hands when coming off the edge and is sporty enough to play with his hand in the dirt or in a two-point. To me, he's at his best as a stand-up 3-4 edge rusher and could be a very intriguing recruit as he continues to add size over the next few seasons. <iframe src="//www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/16679834/614fc4ee3deb11082c533fdd" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> &nbsp; <em><strong>DB: Laron Anderson, 5'10", 170, Elyria</strong></em> A bail corner with compact breaks and quality instincts. Anderson fights to keep a receiver out of his blind spot and constantly has his eyes to the quarterback in zone coverage. He's a physical tackler after the catch and looks to punish receivers with the ball in their hands. He's shown superb recovery speed and outstanding effort, refusing to quit on a play until the whistle is blown. <iframe src="//www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/16381411/61647a5d664b6e011425fa4e" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> &nbsp; <em><strong>LB: Zebulin Kinsey, 6'2", 205, Toronto</strong></em> A physical prospect that looks for contact at any point. Kinsey doesn't wait for blockers, instead bringing the collision to them and often times creating serious knockback. He speeds his feet on contact and can make ball carriers turn &amp; go backward. He exhibited plenty of short-area quickness when coming off the edge and an extensive motor. <iframe src="//www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/16038294/6184406a4deaff08d0faa53e" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> &nbsp; <em><strong>LB: Michael Mulvihill, 6'2", 195, Blanchester</strong></em> An inside linebacker with plenty of burst and closing speed. Michael is a sure tackler who can easily slip blocks inside the box. He plays fearless and is willing to plug any gap, meeting whatever back presents himself. He hits on a rise and will use the gator roll tackle in space when out leveraged. He was extremely versatile on the offensive end as well and was able to create some big plays through the air and on the ground. <iframe src="//www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/15835811/617ef6853df4d30ba819c3dd" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> &nbsp; <em><strong>DB: Trenton Barraza, 6'1", 160, Columbus Grove</strong></em> Trenton doesn't have a complete highlight tape but rather a few game features on his profile, and man, are they impressive. This kid is a playmaker in every sense of the word and can make something happen at defensive back or as a returner. He shows excellent top-end speed, fine tackling ability, and elusive cuts in space. His length and overall athleticism make him someone to keep an eye on over the next few seasons. <iframe src="//www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/13002155/6166d0823df58205402d7f15" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>