Aug. 24, 2007
 |
|
Preseason | Buy Tickets | Nashville Night | Ole Miss Fundraiser
Nagurski and Butkus award candidate Jonathan Goff (6-4, 235, R-Sr.) is a physical presence from his middle linebacker position and ranks among the top defensive players in the SEC. Goff and strongside linebacker Marcus Buggs (5-11, 225, R-Sr.) give the Commodores a pair of solid performers and excellent leaders returning for their final year.
Goff, highly regarded by NFL draft experts, continues the superb Commodore tradition at linebacker, and enters 2007 with 27 consecutive starts to his resume. He also ranks as the Commodores’ active career leader – and third best among SEC players – in total tackles and solo stops. Goff also enters camp five pounds lighter than a year ago in an effort to add quickness.
Buggs is an emotional leader and impact hitter for the Vanderbilt defense. As a starter in 2006, Buggs displayed a big-play ability and a willingness to punish ball carriers. He should continue to blossom, and like Goff, serves as an excellent example at practice for the more inexperienced linebackers.
Two linebackers coming off excellent Spring Practice efforts, Brandon Bryant (6-1, 228, R-So.) and Patrick Benoist (6-0, 215, So.), are expected to compete for the open outside linebacker role. On numerous occasions last spring, the coaches bragged on the development of both players.
Others in the mix for key reserve responsibilities include Nathan Campbell (6-3, 228, R-Fr.), Chris Johnson (6-1, 230, R-So.), and Austin Newton (6-2, 215, R-Fr.). The coaches also were impressed with the practice ability and weightroom effort of Michael Garcia (6-0, 240, R-Fr.). Walk-ons Dom Morais (5-11, 215 Sr.), and Bo Baggarley (6-1, 210, Jr.), also will compete for playing time next fall.
The Commodore signing class includes two prep standout linebackers from Memphis: Chris Marve (6-0, 230) and John Stokes (6-5, 230).