A couple articles on converted linebackers Dorin Dickerson and Shane Murray that tend to overlap and share quotes since they are both about Pitt linebackers and written by the same guy.
Dickerson seems to like the conditioning from Buddy Morris because he sees a lot of track drills mixed in the system.
“And we still have about two more months to go before training camp in August, so I think we’re way ahead of schedule. We’re going to be ready for anything this year. We’ve been running a lot, 325 yards, which are three 100s and a 25 in under a minute. Then, you get like a minute break.
“Buddy got that from a track guy, and it’s helped our endurance,” Dickerson added. “In the weight room, we’ll hit like every aspect of every muscle in our body. So, that’s been unbelievable. I’m leaner, and I think I’m faster, but I weigh about 223 pounds right now. So, I’m doing pretty well.”
Dickerson primarily is battling redshirt junior Adam Gunn for the Panthers’ starting strong-side linebacker spot. The 6-foot-2 Dickerson is faster, more athletic and appears to be in fantastic shape, but Gunn worked mostly with the first team in the spring.
Dickerson talks about the position and playing in terms of speed and using his athleticism — his strengths. Murray seems more comfortable putting it as playing football, and understanding the position.
“That’s a big thing for me,” Murray said. “I try to use my head, my mental ability, and try to think about what’s going to happen on a play before it happens. That’s what really counts in this game.
“I just have to know where to be and when to be there. And I’ll use my hands and feet when I get there. I can’t afford to hook up with a blocker that could be a lot bigger. But that’s the way it is for me.”
…
“And the more I hang around with guys like Scott and Shane, the more I understand what it takes to play linebacker at this level. I’m also learning how to approach things now, and it’s all coming a lot easier to me. I know I can play linebacker at this level, and I can’t wait to get out there and show what I can do this season.”
Can a compare and contrast of styles and approaches be far behind?
On another note: where did the stories about Fields start – and are there any formal confirmations re: failed drug tests?