Standout Sophomore Linebackers in Central Illinois
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<p><strong>Macklin Nelson – Rochester</strong><br>Nelson has been one of the most active young linebackers in Central Illinois. The sophomore plays fast downhill and does a great job diagnosing run schemes. He stacks, sheds, and finishes with good form, which shows up in the way he consistently gets to the football. Nelson already looks like a varsity-level tone-setter with real long-term upside.</p>
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<p><strong>Brenton Trickey – Williamsville</strong><br>Trickey is another sophomore who's proving he belongs on the field in big moments. He plays with great effort and range, moving sideline to sideline and finding the ball through traffic. Williamsville's defense leans on his ability to read keys quickly, and he's been steady all season both against the run and in space.</p>
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<p><strong>Drake Taber – Macomb</strong><br>Taber has strong instincts and plays the position with confidence. He's quick to trigger and doesn't hesitate when he sees an opening. His ability to slip blocks and make stops near the line has been a big part of Macomb's defensive success. For a sophomore, he plays with the poise of an upperclassman.</p>
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<p><strong>Tyree Sullivan – Springfield</strong><br>Sullivan brings athleticism and burst to the outside linebacker spot. He moves really well laterally and can close space in a hurry, which helps him make plays in pursuit. Springfield uses him in multiple ways because of his speed and motor, and he's showing flashes of being a true impact player as he develops physically.</p>
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Macklin Nelson – Rochester
Nelson has been one of the most active young linebackers in Central Illinois. The sophomore plays fast downhill and does a great job diagnosing run schemes. He stacks, sheds, and finishes with good form, which shows up in the way he consistently gets to the football. Nelson already looks like a varsity-level tone-setter with real long-term upside.
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