The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports
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wasn't enough depth and competition to satisfy Mattison, who would like to go three deep at every position if possible. Beyer had been Ryan's No. 2 in 2011, and even though he had bulked up to play rush end in his sophomore season, he was the logical choice to enter the fray. The Maize and Blue were also logjammed at weakside end with junior Frank Clark, sophomore Mario Ojemudia and freshman Taco Charlton splitting reps with Beyer. His move, thus, adds an important body to linebacker and helps decrease the glut along the defensive line. "In a lot of ways, we had too many at rush," Mattison said. "It wasn't too many to say we don't like all those guys, but to get reps, because in practice, the biggest thing is getting reps for your guys. We had four guys that are all pretty darn good football players there." At 6-3, 254 pounds, Beyer is a little big, but he won't actively try to lose weight. With his experience at the Sam, and his intelligence, he picked up the position quickly in the spring, and is poised to add versatility and mass to the linebacker corps. "It's just going from your hand on the ground to standing up, and I have to get back in the swing of that," he said. "There is more pass coverage, stuff like that. But so far it's been a pretty good transition. "I'm going to miss the guys at rush end. I've grown close to them, but it's defense. Wherever they need me, I'm glad to play any spot where I can hit the quarterback. As long as I'm doing that, I'm happy." Computer BriefCase Item #1450 This messenger-style, expandable black leather computer briefcase features a large main compartment with plenty of organizing space. Fully lined in 600 denier nylon for added protection against spills and tears. 100% full grain, buffed cowhide. 16" wide x 11.5" high; depth expandable from 4" to 6.5" $149.95 FREE SHIPPING THRU 5-31-13 1-800-421-7751 • www.TheWolverineOnDemand.com