ESPN's Dave Lombardi recently ranked all of the Pac-12 linebacking groups and the Stanford Cardinal were named one of the best units in the conference.
Here is what ESPN's Lombardi had to say about Stanford's dynamic linebacking group:
"David Shaw's program finds itself in the opposite position of the Sun Devils: The Cardinal must replace nearly all of their 2014 defensive starters. Still, Stanford has established itself as a defensive powerhouse -- the Cardinal have led the Pac-12 statistically in each of the past three seasons -- and the development system on that side of the ball seems to be churning ahead. Two of the Cardinal's few returning starters happen to come from this position group. Inside linebacker Blake Martinezwas the team's leading 2014 tackler, while outside 'backer Kevin Anderson brings heat. Peter Kalambayi flashed explosive pass-rush ability last year, and he's expected to assume a more vital role in 2015."
If the Cardinal linebacker can live up to their potential, the entire defense may be able to replicate its performance from last season.
(h/t ESPN)
Photo Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
