By LaMar Grafford
There is a reason why linebackers are considered the "quarterbacks of the defense."
Linebackers must have the awareness to diagnose plays before the snap and then must cover a lot of range after the snap to make open tackles or rush the quarterback.
Central Louisiana has had some tackling machines featured recently at linebacker, as Alexandria Senior High's Jeremiah Marks, Jena's Troy Dangerfield, Montgomery's Kason Lashley and Oakdale's Hunter Longino were among some of last year's standout seniors manning the heart of the defense.
With those guys gone, it is up to the next group to continue that same hard-hitting style.
In part six of the top returning football players series, here is a look at some of the best returning linebackers in the area.
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