Our Upgrade/Downgrade series stays on the defense today as we shift from the defensive line to linebacker. The Beavers only lose one starter in the linebacking corps... and that's former middle linebacker Bryant Cornell. Cornell, a graduate of The Dalles High School, finished last season with 61 tackles in 13 starts.
David Pa'aluhi enters spring practice as the favorite to replace Cornell in the middle. He's out of Waianae, Hawaii, and lacks physical size, but brings a high level of tenacity and a great athletic ability to the defense. He's a former MMA fighter as well, so you know he's got some big hits up his sleeve.
Last Year:
This Year:
Other players who could fill time at middle linebacker include Walker Vave and Tony Wilson.
Now it's time to vote!
--Jake (jake.buildingthedam@gmail.com)