The Six Best NFL-Caliber Players the Gators will Face in 2015

Oct 12, 2013; Athens, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs running back Brendan Douglas (22) runs against Missouri Tigers linebacker Kentrell Brothers during the first quarter at Sanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

ILB Kentrell Brothers, RS Senior- Missouri

Despite the gluttony of defensive linemen that Missouri has produced the last few seasons, the heart and soul of their defense has always been Kentrell Brothers.

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The former 3-star recruit was once a wide receiver in high school but has since transitioned beautifully to the linebacker position.

Brothers was a monster in 2014, where he led Mizzou in tackles with 122, while forcing three fumbles. Brothers can also affect the passing game as well where in 2013, he was second on the team with three interceptions.

On Oct. 10, the Gators offensive line had better account for his position at all times when they head to Faurot Field.

Running more off-tackle and pitch plays can help keep Brothers at bay, but a player as good as he is will always find a way to change some pregame plays.

Strengths

• Does not wait for blockers to come to him, he willingly engages them to force running backs to choose an alternate running lane.
• Solidly built and strong in the run defense, especially when tackling the ball carrier.
• Always seems to be near or around the action and comes up with big turnovers on defense.
• Very smart player; knows how to avoid stronger blockers with his quickness.

Weaknesses

• Does not have the prototypical size you’d like at linebacker but neither did Patrick Willis and he turned out fine.
• Running backs tend to slip past his tackles too often for an All-American MLB.
• Has good quick twitch muscles but is not the fastest open-field linebacker considering his size should say otherwise.

Next: OLB Jordan Jenkins