Film Study: Could Benardrick McKinney bring some punch to Green Bay Packers defense?

Mississippi State Bulldogs linebacker Benardrick McKinney (50) tackles LSU Tigers running back Terrence Magee (18). Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Against the run …

McKinney has received some national criticism for his poor performance against Georgia Tech in the Orange Bowl.

However, after reviewing several of his games, I can confidently say that McKinney’s struggles against the Yellow Jackets pistol offense was a poor reflection of what he can really do on the field.

Against power rushing teams, like LSU, Alabama, and Auburn, McKinney was a force.

Every player has a bad game from time to time, but unfortunately for McKinney, his came under the national spotlight.

The first thing that jumps out about McKinney is his tremendous ability to fill gaps and make stops between the tackles. He’s very physical as an inside run defender and he really uses his size and long frame to gain leverage and hold his ground.

This first clip against LSU demonstrates McKinney’s ability to read and react to plays. Watch how he fills the inside gap to bring the running back down for a short gain.

McKinney shows patience as he waits until the play unfolds before him to then break through the line and bring down the ball carrier.

If left unattended, McKinney is capable of making a handful of these plays each game.

This next clip is also from the LSU game and comes on a key goal line stop.

Like the previous clip, McKinney shows patience and the ability to fill the gap to make the stop. This play also demonstrates his power and strength as he stops the fullback dead in his tracks for no gain.

Both plays showcase McKinney’s ability between the tackles.

He’s a stout run defender and does a tremendous job of using his instincts to anticipate which gap the ball carrier will run through.

The Packers need an inside linebacker with this type of ability against the run.

Next: Shooting the Gap