We’re not far removed from the internet complaining that the Texas Tech coaching staff was “force feeding” LB Jacob Rodriguez to force him upward in the Heisman conversation. We’re just 4 games into his professional career, and the results he’s producing suggest that national commentary was not only wrong for poo-pooing the concept, but simply, that the perspective of who or — more prominently — what position a player fills on the roster, should influence the decision of the best player in college football.
It’s a fair argument to assume that, more often than not, an inside linebacker’s influence on each game is lesser than that of other roles on the field. Let alone the higher-valued positions on a defense. However, when the team — and near total league — leader in tackles is at the position, that argument becomes tougher to make. Sure, their not all for loss. Sure, their not all stopping the breakaway play. But they are sure to be the dirty work. The little games within the game on every single snap that create a pathway to victory. Jacob Rodriguez currently holds +400 odds to take home hardware for Defensive Rookie of the Year, is second in the NFL in tackles (46), and just set a helluva high bar for himself in his week 4 performance.
The Miami Dolphins may be 0-4 to start, but it’s not for a lack of defensive competency. In a 10-15 loss vs the Vikings this week, Rodriguez recorded a career-high 18 tackles and continued to build his rookie lore. This comes on the heels of a performance where tape of his stifling the league-leader in rushing yards, Kenneth Walker, was abundant. His prowess as an enforcer in the heart of the field has simply become unavoidable, and this week’s performance is just one bit of evidence.
The former Heisman Trophy favorite may well end his first year in the league atop his class, and you can keep up with the story right here.
Leave a Reply