Alabama LBs, Dont'a Hightower vs Courtney Upshaw - who's best and why? - Page 2 - New England Patriots Forums

Wilfork#75 · 02-21-2012, 05:45 AM

I'm probably in the minority on here, but I think Upshaw is clearly the superior prospect. Don't get me wrong, I like Hightower, but I think Upshaw is a monster. Like DeMarcus Ware, Upshaw is one dimensional, but that dimension is being awesome at playing football. Sure he may not have the ideal measurable's, but he has the skill set to do everything required out of a 3-4 OLB. I actually think his height helps him, because combined with his power, he is able to out-leverage offensive lineman and be completely dominant. He also has the speed to go around the edge, and the instincts to break up passes into the flats. But what separates Upshaw from all of the other OLB prospects over the past few years is he can play the run, and play it well. He is the most dominant run defending OLB I have seen coming out of college and I think it is going to translate well into the NFL. Unfortunately these are all reasons he will be a top 15 pick.

I think Hightower is also very talented, but unlike some others on here, I don't think he can be an every down 3-4 OLB. I don't see the lateral agility to play on the outside and I don't see the flexibility to consistently bend around the edge. What I do see is a monster 3-4 ILB, that can occasionally rush from the outside, because what he does possess is one hell of a bull rush (just watch him put DJ Fluker on his *** ). Unfortunately that means I don't really see a spot for him on this defense because I don't think he would be that much of an upgrade on Spikes to be worth a 1st round pick. And I don't think he is a fit as a 4-3 OLB.

Off The Grid · 02-21-2012, 06:51 AM

I LOVE this line!!

Slightly adjusted for my amusement.

>>>

Quote:

Originally Posted by Wilfork#75

Upshaw is one dimensional, but that dimension is......being awesome at playing football!!

Reminds me of...

"Yeah....a Professor...of being a DOG!!"

Yeah, I am easily amused!!

VrabelJr · 02-21-2012, 01:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by captain stone

If by one-dimensional you mean the best OLB in football, then you are correct.

And in case you or anyone else hasn't noticed, we need all the one-dimensional 3-4 OLBs
ala DeMarcus Ware that we can grab.

He's the best Jack OLB which is all he is asked to do. Unfortunately the Patriots don't use their Jack OLBs just for pass rushing... which is why most people on this board prefer Hightower to Upshaw being that Hightower could play the Jack spot but do more than just get after the passer.