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

Shooting the gap …

McKinney is far more than just a gap filler, however.

He shows excellent anticipation against the run and possesses the explosive ability to fly at the running back and level him at the line.

This next clip is from his game against Kentucky. Watch how McKinney reads the play and shoots the gap to make the stop.

McKinney completely knocks the running back off his feet.

He may be one of the most physical run defenders in this linebacker class. He never passes up the opportunity to deliver a big hit, and I think that is evident in this clip against Kentucky.

Here is another example of McKinney’s ability to use his quick burst to shoot the gap and make the play behind the line.

This clip is from his game against UAB. Watch how quickly McKinney splits the blocks and gets into the backfield to drag the ball carrier down.

McKinney also does a good job on this play of wrapping up the ball carrier and bringing him down for a loss.

These type of plays are routine with McKinney’s game.

For a defense that needs to dramatically improve their run defense, McKinney would be a welcomed presence.

The Packers would benefit from his ability to make plays behind the line of scrimmage.

Next: Plays in Pursuit