Grizzly Football Preview – Middle Linebacker

Just 5 positional previews remain for my look at this year's Montana Grizzlies football squad.

Today, I'll examine the middle linebackers, who are usually the quarterback of the defense. What I mean by that is that the middle 'backer is normally responsible for making the calls and adjustments necessary. He must also play well against the run and drop back into pass coverage.

Here's what the Griz have at "mike" backer this season:

Caleb McSurdy, Sr.
Beau Donaldson, Jr.
Josh Stuberg, Jr.
Ethan Pateman, So.
Brian Maus, Fr.
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RETURNING STARTERS: 1

PLAYER TO WATCH: Caleb McSurdy

SLEEPER: Beau Donaldson

FUTURE STAR: Ethan Pateman

Caleb McSurdy returns to the starting lineup after starting all 11 games a year ago. Josh Stuberg is listed as the backup and got his feet wet as a true freshman two years ago during the Grizzlies' championship game run. Beau Donaldson, originally recruited by former coach Bobby Hauck as a fullback, has made the move to the defensive side of the ball, as new coach Robin Pflugrad's offense doesn't really use that position. Former Sentinel Spartan Brian Maus originally came to UM on a track and field scholarship, and joined the football team during the spring. Ethan Pateman, who emerged as a solid playmaker a year ago, was lost for the season due to an injury.