Prospect Film Study: ILB Stephone Anthony a fit in Green Bay?

Virginia Cavaliers quarterback David Watford (5) runs with the ball as Clemson Tigers linebacker Stephone Anthony (42). Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Drawbacks

I would not be giving an honest evaluation of a player if I didn’t discuss some of the flaws in Anthony’s game.

While I remain a big fan of what Anthony brings to the field, his one recurring fault on film is at times his aggressive style of play can get the best of him and he can get out of position while over-pursuing a back.

For example, against Syracuse Anthony loses gap discipline while chasing the back and leaves the middle of the field vulnerable for Prince-Tyson Gulley to cut back and run for a big gain.

A similar thing happened in the Georgia game when Anthony bit on the inside and then took a bad angle to the outside when chasing Todd Gurley.

Gurley burned him for a touchdown.

In Anthony’s defense, Gurley burned quite a few people in college, but Anthony will have to get used to facing this caliber of back every week in the NFL.

Anthony is a physical, high-motored player with plenty of explosive ability. However, in the NFL he may get caught out of position if he doesn’t play more disciplined, assignment-sound football.

The good news is this is a drawback that is easily correctible. This is not enough to deter a team from selecting the Clemson product in an early round this spring.

Next: Anthony's Fit in Packers Defense