Middle linebacker still a mystery … or is it?

Middle linebacker still a mystery … or is it? - Shandel Richardson

CORAL GABLES _ Greetings from chilly Mark Light Field.

I’m here at the opener for UM’s three-game series against Florida, but wanted to drop a few football notes before it gets too late.

After Friday’s practice, linebacker Colin McCarthy spoke to the media for the first time this spring. McCarthy, who has played on the outside throughout his career, said he’s playing some middle linebacker.

And so is Shayon Green.

And Kylan Robinson.

And so will Ramon Buchanan and Jordan Futch when they return from injury in the fall.

“We’re just kind of working everybody in,” McCarthy said.

UM coach Randy Shannon was asked about the position and spoke mostly of Robinson and Green. He said Robinson would be the starter if the Spring Game were today. This is Shannon’s way of avoiding talk of McCarthy making the move, although it seems more likely.

McCarthy said he’s played the middle mostly during nickel situations, but said it’s not much of a difference from playing it in base defense.

When asked about moving to middle, McCarthy said, “It’s a possibility, as far as I know. We’ll see what happens.”

A few thoughts:

–C.J. Holtonis behind Sean Spence at strongside linebacker. Holton said he’s gained 20 pounds and now up to 230.

“I’m just learning from anybody I can,” Holton said.

Surprisingly, Holton said he’s learning the most from Futch and Buchanan, who both are participating on a limited basis.

–The linebackers unit, and defense, feels it benefits from Michael Barrow returning to linebackers coach. His presence allows defensive coordinator John Lovett to spend time working with other areas. Barrow spent last season as a defensive assistant while Lovett coached the linebackers.

It also helps Barrow played the position at UM and in the NFL for several years.

“(Barrow) has been there, so we can relate to him a lot better,” McCarthy said. “He’s doing a great job and we’re feeding off him.”

–I’m told left tackle Orlando Franklin missed Friday’s practice because of back spasms. Shannon refused to comment, but did say Franklin is dealing with a minor problem he experienced last season.

–Guard Brandon Washington is expected to miss at least a week with a slight knee sprain.

–Safety Jared Campbell was seen at practice on crutches and in a leg brace.

–Sophomore receiver Davon Johnson is back in the mix after redshirting last season. He said he made that decision after three games because he “didn’t want to waste a year.” It’s going to be tough for Johnson to leap anyone, but he feels a year away helped him learn.

“Last year, it was a good time for me to learn the system better, get well-adjusted to college ball,” Johnson said. “This year, I feel like I’m ready.”

–For anyone interested, the Sean Taylor Foundation is holding a charity softball game Saturday at St. Thomas University. Here’s a link for more information. Among the celebrities expected to play are Jevon Kearse, Ed Reed and Sinorice Moss.