Linebackers back defense, rest of team in 2001
Linebacker by committee is the system in place to solve CMU’s run-stopping woes from a year ago.
With an emphasis on depth at the linebacking position the Chippewas look to improve on a run defense that was ranked dead last in the nation last year.
Last year’s defense was hurt with the spring loss of Abdullah Muhammad to shoulder problems. The defense as a whole never got over the loss of Muhammad and the strain it would place on the other linebackers.
This year’s group will have to make up for the losses of Brian Colar, Jason Hayes, Casey Laughlin and starter Ralph Sewell to graduation.
Leading the charge for the corps of backers Darvin Lewis. Lewis was second on the team last year with 113 tackles.
Also returning to the linebacker fold is James Westrich. Westrich, the 6’ 1” true senior, saw action in all 11 games last year and had 33 stops.
Westrich will play the “Will” or weak side linebacker spot in the Chippewas new defensive scheme.
The scheme will feature two strong safeties and only two linebackers.
In the new scheme Lewis will play the “Mike” or the middle linebacker.
Backing up Lewis will be red shirt freshman Anthony Tyus. Tyus sat out last year and hales from Lansing. He has converted from full back to the linebacker position and adds speed to the crew.
Behind Westrich is Ed Hillery. Hillery stands 6’ 1”. The Rochester Hills native posted 11 tackles in his freshman campaign last year, including two for a loss.
