01-03-2017, 08:11 AM
I don't see ILB as a weakness in 2017 at all. Barton and Okereke are every down LBs, which makes them more legit starters than Palma (better vs. run) and Perez (better in pass coverage). Not sure about Branch, but he should also be better just from experience in 2017.
OLB is a much greater issue for me. Between Alfieri (5), Kalambayi (3.5) Toohill (2.5), and Tyler (1.5), they racked up 12.5 sacks. Thomas and Phillips combined for 14 from the DL. That's not good. Stanford needs more production from outside pass rushers. One again, I'll say I'm hopeful Curtis Robinson is that guy in 2017. Stanford hasn't had a consistent outside pass rusher since Trent Murphy. Even Chase Thomas production would be an improvement.
OLB is a much greater issue for me. Between Alfieri (5), Kalambayi (3.5) Toohill (2.5), and Tyler (1.5), they racked up 12.5 sacks. Thomas and Phillips combined for 14 from the DL. That's not good. Stanford needs more production from outside pass rushers. One again, I'll say I'm hopeful Curtis Robinson is that guy in 2017. Stanford hasn't had a consistent outside pass rusher since Trent Murphy. Even Chase Thomas production would be an improvement.


