LSU football report card: Midseason grades

Oct 3, 2015; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers linebacker Deion Jones (45) celebrates with teammates following an interception against the Eastern Michigan Eagles during the second half of a game at Tiger Stadium. LSU defeated Eastern Michigan 44-22. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Linebackers: B-

LSU’s linebackers have been a mixed bag in 2015.

They have played a tremendous role in the Tigers’ stout run defense, but they have also had their shortcomings defending the pass.

Senior Deion Jones has certainly been one of the bright spots of the veteran unit.

Jones is in a tie for fifth in the SEC with two interceptions on the season, including one that he returned 26 yards for a touchdown against Eastern Michigan in Week 5. After a quiet performance against South Carolina the following week, Jones bounced back with 10 tackles, a sack and a pass breakup against Florida.

The rest of the LSU linebacker corps has been rather silent in the playmaking department, however.

Senior Lamar Louis has failed to record more than four total tackles or two solos in a game, with no sacks or tackles for loss on the year.

Junior Kendell Beckwith has failed to reach high expectations that accompanied him entering the 2015 college football season, after being named second-team preseason All-SEC.

Beckwith has compiled three tackles for loss on the season, but has failed to produce more than eight tackles since Week 2 against Mississippi State. He has record no sacks, and has yet to force a turnover.

Next: Defensive Backs