West Virginia Football: Grading the Mountaineers at midseason
By Brian Harper
Linebackers – B
Linebacker Al-Rasheed Benton has been one of the few bright spots, leading the team in tackles (44), tackles for a loss (seven) and sacks (five). He’s even got one of the team’s five interceptions. He’s done it all so far, but he needs some help.
Others have shown flashes, but injuries have hurt here more than almost anywhere else. The return of David Long, Jr. has everyone buzzing, but if WVU is going to make any noise, the tackling has to improve.
Senior Xavier Preston is one name that hasn’t quite performed to expectations. He’s averaging three tackles per game and could really provide a spark for the defense if he can turn things around.
One name that exceeded expectations was redshirt freshman Dylan Tonkery. Tonkery went from a feel-good story in the spring to a contributor in Long’s absence, notching 15 tackles and getting 3.5 tackles for loss and a sack. He’ll only get better as he gets more experience.