247 Film Breakdown: Michael Erhart

Overview

Oregon State has had focused a lot of recruiting attention on the defensive side of the ball. In June the Beavers secured several commitments, including linebacker Michael Erhart from West Hills (Calif.) Chaminade.

Former Oregon State running back Marcus Greaves has been evaluating the film of the latest group of commits. He takes a look at Erhart's strengths and weaknesses as we head into signing day.

FILM STUDY: What first jumps out to me is Erhart's ability to cover slot receivers in space. If I am a receiver and I see a linebacker covering me, I am licking my chops because nine times out of ten, a receiver will beat a linebacker one on one, but Erhart is different. He has the right instincts and can play man to man with receivers or he can drop back into a zone coverage.

Another aspect of his game that will be a great help to the Beavers in the future, is that he can tackle in open space. Some linebackers are very good tackling in between the trenches, while others are good tackling in space. Very rarely have I seen a young kid be good at both. I think Erhart is extremely talented when it comes to tackling in open space. The ability to watch the ball carriers hips and take the right angles for a clean tackle is a very rare trait to have for a high school linebacker.

Erhart is also just a very good athlete, playing kick returner, and safety which shows me that he can adapt to positions that he needs too and is intelligent enough to learn on the fly. He's the kind of player that no matter where you put him, he is going to make a play.

STRENGTHS: Erhart's versatility is a big thing for me. With his ability to play multiple positions, it tells me he is a smart football player and can be reliable if the time comes to throw him in the mix. Also, his ability to tackle is huge, especially coming into a defense that struggled in tackling all season. Bringing in an athlete who is a sure tackler will benefit this defense tremendously.

WEAKNESS: Playing too high. With as good as he is in high school, he isn't worried about his bad level because he is much better than his competition. Once he gets to Oregon State where the competition is better, if he plays that high he is going to have a very hard time tackling anybody. With running backs the size of Ryan Nall, or as aggressive as former running back Tim Cook, you're going to need low pad level to even stand a chance of bringing guys like that down.