Northwestern’s linebacking corps tackles speed issue

In this era of five-receiver sets and dual-threat quarterbacks who run and cut like tailbacks, a lack of speed on defense can kill.

Northwestern recognized the trend several years ago and started filling more of their linebacker scholarships with recruits who played running back, wide receiver and safety in high school.

“The game is all speed now,” said Randy Bates, who enters his sixth year at Northwestern’s linebackers coach. “We’ve gone to recruit for speed and that’s what we’ve got.”

Now it’s a matter of taking their time figuring out which guys deserve the starting nod in the Sept. 3 opener at Boston College.

Fifth-year senior Bryce McNaul, the lone returning starter, has the edge on fifth-year senior Ben Johnson at weak-side linebacker.

Junior David Nwabuisi, who rushed for 1,400 yards and 20 TDs in his senior year at Houston’s Episcopal High School, is locked in a competition with sophomore Damien Proby in the middle.

Redshirt freshmen Collin Ellis and Chi Chi Ariguzo have been neck-and-neck all fall at the strong-side linebacker, though Ellis’ recent injury to his right arm means Johnson has begun preparing to play either outside spot.

“You’re going to see a lot of guys play,” said head coach Pat Fitzgerald. “We feel great about the depth. We’ll probably have a bunch of ‘ORs’ for you on Monday (on the depth chart). Just being honest.”

What does all this mean to the discerning Northwestern fan who witnessed dismal defensive play during the final 3 games of 2010?

“All these guys can run better than anybody we’ve had, other than Nick Roach,” said Bates, referring to the 2007 NU grad who’s now the Bears’ starting strong-side linebacker. “They’re as good athletically as we’ve ever had.”

Considering Johnson entered fall ball listed as the strong-side starter — but moved to the weak side early in camp — Ellis (who rushed for 1,798 yards in high school) and Ariguzo (who attracted NU’s recruiters while playing strong safety) must have something special.

But because they’ve yet to play a snap of college ball, Bates wants to makes sure they’re ready. He cranked up the oral heat — as if it wasn’t muggy enough in Northwestern’s indoor facility — during Wednesday’s practice.

“At this point, I’m putting a lot more pressure on them to see if they’ll crack,” Bates said.

Ariguzo showed well in Saturday’s scrimmage as he got his hands on two passes ... though he probably should have reeled in at least one of those for an interception.

“I’m just trying to prove that I can play,” Ariguzo said. “Being a safety (in high school), I can play coverage out there. And just flying to the ball. I guess people say I’m elusive and athletic, but just get to the ball.”