AJC > Sports > Tech > Blog > Archives > 2008 > October > 01
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Michael Tauiliili
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Aside from being someone with a startling number of i’s in his name, Tauiliili is a big concern for Tech this Saturday. Tauiliili is Duke’s middle linebacker and runs 5-11, 235. I spoke with center Dan Voss yesterday and he suspected he’s much heavier than that.
But anyway, he’s the leading tackler in the ACC and last week was named the Walter Camp National Defensive Player of the Week after Duke beat Navy and he had 16 tackles, an interception, a caused fumble and a forced fumble.
Paul Johnson brought him up, along with fellow linebackers Vincent Rey and Marcus Jones, as three of Duke’s most impressive players at Tuesday’s press conference. All three of them started last year, also. They certainly seem like Duke’s strength; they might be the best linebacker group the in conference.
Which brings me to my question. You could argue that Tech’s linebackers, particularly because of their depth issues - notably Brad Jefferson being out since the opener - have been, if not a weakness, a place that the Jackets could use help.
If you could pick any player off any D-I roster to join Tech, who would it be? Personally, I think I might go with USC linebacker Rey Maualaga. Fast, hits hard and a playmaker.
