Linebackers
I think I was a sophomore the when Skalski came into Clemson. (Note: I was a sophomore in 1997)
This will be weird to see. No James Skalski or Brandon Spector manning the inside of that Tiger linebacking group. But what WILL be fun to see is Trenton Simpson leading this young group.
I truly believe that Simpson may go down in Clemson lore as one of the best linebackers to come through here ever. He is that dang good. I look forward to seeing him be a vocal leader, especially for the younger guys like Barrett Carter and Jeremiah Trotter, Jr.
It is time for Levonte Bentley to step up. It is his year to be what we all believe he can and should be. I will have my eyes focused on him for the spring just to see if he is able to grasp what Defensive Coordinator Wes Goodwin is giving him. I have high hopes for Bentley, and think he can be a real star on this tremendous defense.
I really just am looking to see how a linebacking group without the stalwarts of Skalski and Spector look. Regardless of people’s thoughts on eithers athletic abilities, those two were so sound in everything they did and were relied on heavily in Brent Venables’ defense. So the new look, while welcome, will be something to watch.