2023 Overlooked Linebackers: Part 1

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Leadership can come from any player, regardless of the position they play. But on defense, linebackers need to lead by example. Today and tomorrow, we will spend time looking at some talented linebackers who have the potential to ascend the state rankings this fall.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id="300727" first="Tyson" last="Patterson"], 6’1, 180 pounds, Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Brebeuf Jesuit had the support of a strong defense last year for what was a remarkable season. The linebacker corps returns a wealth of talent and experience. As such, we will see them being well represented over the next two days. [player_tooltip player_id="300727" first="Tyson" last="Patterson"] played seven games last year and gave a preview of what is next in a big senior season for him. As a junior, Patterson notched 35 tackles with four tackles-for-loss. He added one pass defense and one fumble recovery. [player_tooltip player_id="300727" first="Tyson" last="Patterson"] has shown what he is capable of. Look for him to put together a solid year this fall.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id="300607" first="Peyton" last="Chinn"], 5’10, 190 pounds, Seeger</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id="300607" first="Peyton" last="Chinn"] can lead as a running back and as a linebacker. At running back, Chinn reads his blocks well and allows them to dictate where he is going to go. After the first contact is made, Chinn can drive forward and carry defenders. Chinn can also be a viable pass-catching option. In 2021, Chinn posted 60 tackles. Chinn can be a disruptive force. Last year, he tallied nine-and-a-half tackles-for-loss. Chinn added a pair of sacks coupled with four quarterback hurries, one fumble recovery and a pair of forced fumbles.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id="193987" first="Chase" last="Harrison"], 6’0, 225 pounds, Columbus East</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id="193987" first="Chase" last="Harrison"] can be a force in all three phases. Defensively, he gives relentless effort and routinely rallies to the football. Once he gets there, Harrison is a reliable tackler. On special teams, Harrison plays on the kickoff coverage unit. He does a great job of sprinting down to make the play. On the offensive side of the ball, Harrison can wear down the defense as a bruising running back. Harrison can run right through first contact and push the pile.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id="299659" first="Aiden" last="Hooton"], 5’11, 180 pounds, Mishawaka</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id="299659" first="Aiden" last="Hooton"] has the versatility to play both middle linebacker and strong safety. That is important as it will allow him to contribute in different ways. At linebacker, Hooton flies around the field and makes plays. Hooton plays with aggression. He can read the play, put his foot in the ground and attack downhill. This makes Hooton a great blitzer. He knows where he needs to go and does not hesitate. Hooton pursues very well. On plays that go to the outside, Hooton hustles to the perimeter to get to the ball.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->