As we prepare for the 2013 football season, we’re taking a look at the best returning HBCU players at each position. Today, we check out the top linebackers in the SIAC. Next up, the SWAC.
Leron Furr, Fort Valley State
Furr started his career at Oklahoma State before injuries (and legal trouble) ended his stint in Stillwater. It’s safe to say, however, that Furr has found a home at Fort Valley State. The linebacker finished with 110 tackles, including an NCAA-leading 32 for loss. He also added 6.5 sacks, en route to being named Co-SIAC Defender of The Year in 2012. He enters this season as Football Gameplan Preseason All-American and a serious pro prospect.
Quavon Taylor, Tuskegee
Like Furr, Quavon Taylor took the scenic route to SIAC stardom. The Miami, FL native redshirted as a freshman at the University of South Florida in 2008 and pretty much fell off the football map before landing at Tuskegee in 2012. Taylor made an immediate impact, leading the conference in tackles with 117 and helping Tuskgee take home the conference crown. With several pieces from last year’s puzzle missing, Taylor will be looked upon for leadership in 2013.
El’ Malik Chinn, Tuskegee
While he doesn’t have the FCS pedigree of Taylor, Chinn was arguably just as important to the Golden Tiger defense last season. He finished second to Taylor with 105 total tackles, and led the team with 9.5 behind the line of scrimmage. He also added four sacks. He, along with Taylor, give Tuskegee a defense that will be tough to contend with over the next few seasons.
Terry Horton, Kentucky State
At 5-11, 240 Horton is small for a linebacker but he makes a big impact on the game. Horton led Kentucky State with 78 tackles. He also recorded 10 tackles for loss, including 4.5 sacks and picked off a pass during his sophomore season.
