Tennessee football: Five Ball State Cardinals to watch for against Vols
Pick Analysis. Scouting Report. Linebacker. Junior. Clayton Coll. 2. player. 2246
6’3″ 235 pounds
Another returning defender, Clayton Coll is an example of what Ball State has at linebacker this year. Despite losing Jaylin Thomas, they have a lot of crucial players back at that position, and none of them bring a level of versatility that Coll brings. In fact, Coll is probably the most versatile defender on the team.
Coll is the only returning player on the team who had over 100 tackles last year. He was third with 104, and he was fourth in solo tackles with 46. In tackles for a loss, he was tied for fourth with five and a half, and he was tied for fourth in sacks with two. That’s all just what he did when it came to the physical play of the position.
In coverage, Coll was one of five players to have multiple interceptions, as he tied for second on the team there with two, joining three other players. He also broke up a pass and forced a fumble. Simply put, this guy was a playmaker all over the field and is their main returning inside linebacker.
Now, Tennessee football should be able to deal with him, but he could make it difficult for them to run the ball. Also, if Hendon Hooker does have trouble releasing the ball quickly, Coll could be dangerous in spy. Josh Heupel will have to account for him at all times.