Linebacker Leads By Example

By Anthony Fontana

When a new coaching staff is put into place, it is not uncommon for individual statistics to decline from the previous season, as it takes time for players to learn a new system and the new coach’s tendencies. 

Luckily for junior linebacker John Jacobs, that was not the case. 

Jacobs finished the regular season as the leading tackler in the GLIAC, with 131 total tackles. Last season, Jacobs finished his sophomore season with 74 tackles, good for 21 in the conference. He was also named to the 2007 All-GLIAC Honorable Mention Team. 

First year head coach Jim Collins says there’s only one word to describe the season that Jacobs just completed. 

“Phenomenal.” Collins said. “He would go out and make plays that players of his caliber are expected to make. Other times he would leave you shaking your head in amazement because he would make a play that nobody is expected to make. He’s just an all around tremendous athlete and a great player to have on the team.”

Jacobs credits the work that he put in during the off season for the successful season that he had. 

“Preparing for this season started last year when we came back from break. It was really important to show the new coaching staff the kind of work ethic that we have here at SVSU and how serious we are about football.” Jacobs said.

Although Jacobs excels at the linebacker position, he has played a variety of different positions at different levels, with varying degrees of success.

“Over my career, I’ve played many different positions, both offensively and defensively. Growing up, I played quarterback, running back, and receiver. Through out the years, I’ve come to the conclusion that linebacker is the place for me. At this point, I would only consider playing on defense.” Jacobs said.

Jacobs began playing football back when he was seven years old in a flag football league. Ever since then, he’s had a passion for the game that can hardly be matched.

“It’s hard to imagine that someone could beat up their body every fall since the age of seven, but football is addicting. The great thing about football is that it isn’t about one guy, it’s about one team. If the team isn’t successful, than no one individual will be successful because one player doesn’t win a national championship.” Jacobs said.

When asked what his favorite part about being a linebacker is, Jacobs had a unique response.

“The linebacker position really seems to have some correlation with life. Everyday a person is faced with new obstacles to overcome, much like a linebacker.  Throughout life, successful people make great sacrifices, as do linebackers.”