CEDAR CITY, Utah - As the countdown to the fall season intensifies, there's an undeniable air of anticipation surrounding Southern Utah's formidable linebacker unit. Boasting a blend of veterans and newcomers, this lineup is poised to dominate the field. The roster features four standout linebackers who are set to lead the charge, supported by a promising crop of new faces.

Head Coach DeLane Fitzgerald Said

"We have one of the most talented linebacker cores in the conference, our Linebackers can run, change directions, and tackle with any FCS linebackers in the country."

The Core Four

In the heart of Southern Utah's defensive unit stands four linebackers poised to impact the game. Each with a unique skill set and a commitment to excellence, these standout players are set to make waves in the upcoming season.

    Aubrey Nellems

Aubrey Nellems is a name that has been around Cedar City for a long time. His Fall 2022 campaign showcased his exceptional defensive skills. With appearances in 11 games, Nellems demonstrated his versatility by recording 52 total tackles—35 solo and 17 assists. Notable among his achievements was a standout performance against Lincoln (CA) where he tallied an impressive 10 tackles. Garnering recognition for his consistent contributions, Nellems earned the distinction of being named to the Bluebloods 2nd Team All-Conference, solidifying his position as a crucial asset to the team's success.

    Kohner Cullimore

Recalling his remarkable achievements from the Fall 2022 season, Kohner Cullimore stands out for his contributions. His remarkable debut season saw him amass an impressive total of 76 tackles—42 solo and 34 assists. Notably, Cullimore's exceptional performance earned him a spot on the Bluebloods 1st Team All-Conference, underlining his prowess on the field. Additionally, he clinched the honor of being named a 2022 HERO Sports Freshman All-American.

    Josh Dunn

Josh Dunn's impact on the field is undeniable, and his presence in all 11 games during the Fall 2022 season showcased his reliability. Recording a total of 47 tackles—29 solo and 18 assists—Dunn's performance left a mark on the defensive lineup. His tenacity and hard-hitting style were evident in his season-high eight tackles against Western Illinois. For his contributions, Dunn secured a well-deserved place as a 3rd Team All-Conference honoree, further underscoring his crucial role within the linebacker unit.

    Trent Whalen

Trent Whalen's impact reverberated through the field during the Fall 2022 season. Whalen showcased his ability to disrupt the opposition's plays, amassing an impressive total of 51 tackles in 10 games. His standout moment came in a clash against Stephen F. Austin, where he recorded an extraordinary 18 tackles. Whalen's presence on the field has the potential to make a difference this fall. 

Linebackers Coach Shay McClure said

"I am feeling good about the group that we have this season. We have a lot of guys coming back with significant game experience and we brought in some new players who are competing for time. We still have some work to accomplish before kickoff at ASU but we are progressing well."

Rising Stars and Unseen Potential

As the spotlight shines on our seasoned stalwarts, the emergence of Conner Meyer, Rand Jensen, and the impressive Mason Stromstad adds an exciting layer to Southern Utah's linebacker core. Stromstad's rapid adaptation to the defensive system and his relentless work ethic have positioned him as a pleasant surprise in the mix. With promising players like Kaden Kelley, Bodee Blackett, and Jacob Sersansie also making strides, the depth and potential of this lineup are boundless.

In a conference brimming with talent, Southern Utah's linebacker corps distinguishes itself as a force to be reckoned with.  The stage is set for a sensational season, and Southern Utah's linebackers are undoubtedly at the forefront of the action.

Single Game Tickets

Single-game tickets for the 2023 season are now available. Get over to tbirdtickets.com to get your seats for this year's home games!

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