The Linebackers

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This unit will likely be the best for Northwestern this year, and it should have the best depth. Returning at one outside linebacker position will be the outstanding senior Quentin Davie. He racked up 90 tackles last year, 11.5 for loss, and is being named on most All Big 10, and even some All-American, watch lists. The middle linebacker position will be filled by Nate Williams. He is entering his senior year after having a very solid year last year, averaging 7.17 tackles per game last year, best on the team (he played one fewer game than Davie). The other outside linebacker position will be filled by Bryce McNaul. He is a junior who saw only moderate playing time due to injury last year but was named the team's most improved player coming out of spring. I am also pleased with the second-team linebackers. Backing up Davie will be Ben Johnson. He is a junior who started seven games last year, so expect him to see decent playing time. David Nwabuisi, a sophomore, will be returning as Williams's backup. The redshirt freshman Damien Proby will be backing up McNaul. Overall, expect great things from this unit. I don't expect much success running the ball for NU's opponents.