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Midseason First and Second Team All-American Projections

By Zach Bigalke

Oct 22, 2016; Louisville, KY, USA; Louisville Cardinals quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) runs the ball against North Carolina State Wolfpack linebacker Airius Moore (58) during the first quarter at Papa John
Oct 22, 2016; Louisville, KY, USA; Louisville Cardinals quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) runs the ball against North Carolina State Wolfpack linebacker Airius Moore (58) during the first quarter at Papa John /
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Oct 22, 2016; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini running back Ke’Shawn Vaughn (5) is tackled by Michigan Wolverines defensive end Chris Wormley (43) and linebacker Jabrill Peppers (5) in the first half at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 22, 2016; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini running back Ke’Shawn Vaughn (5) is tackled by Michigan Wolverines defensive end Chris Wormley (43) and linebacker Jabrill Peppers (5) in the first half at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /

OLB: Jabrill Peppers (Michigan)

It is hard to pin down Jabrill Peppers’ exact role for the Michigan defense, but after playing more at defensive back in 2015 the versatile junior has spent more time drifting from an outside linebacker position in 2016. In addition to moonlighting on offense and starring as a return man on both punts and kickoffs, Peppers has developed into one of the most impactful defenders in college football in Jim Harbaugh’s system that maximizes his skill set.

Peppers has been adept at both pass rushing and run defense. The nominal linebacker has put up traditional numbers at the position, ranking in the top 20 nationally with 10.5 tackles for loss and adding 2.5 sacks. His 41 total tackles rank second-best on a Wolverines unit that is full of playmakers. He has yet to snag a turnover this season, but given his ability to make plays all over the field it only feels like a matter of time before that technicality seals his All-American selection.

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