Stephone Anthony, has been extremely productive for the Clemson Tigers. He makes plays in the backfield, in coverage, and playing the run. Anthony epitomizes the speed that Clemson defense looks for. Stephone Anthony has the size at 6’3 245, to get of blocks and make sure tackles. At the same time, he has the speed to cover TEs, RBs, and receivers. Anthony has the leaping ability to knock down passes, that would normally go over most LBs heads. If he isn’t covering, Anthony can get after the QB and force him into bad throws.
Let’s take a look at his numbers. Since 2011, Anthony has compiled 242 tackles, 33 TFL, 10 sacks, 7 FFs, 3 INTs, and 8 passes defensed. Those numbers show just how much he makes plays all over the field. He numbers have continually gotten better. Going from 31 tackles in 2011, 63 tackles in 2012, 86 tackles in 2013, and 62 tackles this year. He already has the same amount of tackles this year, as he did all of 2012. He combine for 9 TFL in 2011 and 2012, but in 2013, he had a total of 15! The fact that he made 15 TFL in 13 games, is insane. That means he makes at least one tackle for a loss in every game. He is in the backfield on a lot of running plays. His speed to get past blockers is incredible. The burst he shows, combined with the discipline to not over penetrate, is rare.
He is also very active in coverage. He is most dangerous when covering in space. His 8 passes defensed and 3 interceptions are mostly from zone coverage. He can hide behind other OL and lure the QB into throwing it. He has the ability to go up and get his hands on the ball.
Stephone Anthony isn’t a big name at LB at the moment, but as the draft process goes on, look for Anthony to garner some attention. With a good combine/pro day, Anthony can raise his stock as far as lat Day 1. Consider Anthony a sleeper in this draft.
