Since the question has come up, just who is Antwon Canady, the player slated to start at middle linebacker on the University of Louisville footbal
l team? The position is suddenly receiving a lot of attention with the announcement that Mozell Axon is out for the season.
The official football profile doesn’t even include a photo and lists only the basics: Canady is a sophomore from Swainsboro, Geo., transfer from Hutchinson Junior College, standing six feet, weighing 234 pounds, playing linebacker, and wearing No. 51. The media guide lists Canady on the roster but also minus a photo or any highlights.
So who is this player with no profile?
Have to be intent to find anything meaningful about the kid. A Google search reveals that Canady was the defensive stopper for Hutchinson Junior College in 2007 with 106 tackles, including 52 solo stops. He was the conference leader in tackles per game at 11.8 tackles per game, third in the league in tackles for loss (17.5) and ninth in quarterback sacks (7).
As a freshman at Hutchinson, Canady caught the collective eye of a dozen major programs. He eventually chose Louisville over Arkansas and Texas Tech, probably because he would have a chance to start immediately. He is right on schedule, having been listed as No. 1 on the depth chart for a couple of weeks, and is the likely starter in the season opener.
If last season is any indication, he’s not shy when it comes to knocking people down. Should have plenty of opportunities against Kentucky’s running backs on Sunday. Hopefully make a name for himself, earn a lot more recognition.