After a shortened season capped by a Citrus Bowl victory, it’s time to begin our postseason coverage by handing out grades and taking a look at what’s to come in the fall. We’ll evaluate each position group and discuss how well they performed, as well as what the future might hold. Up next are the linebackers.

Overall Grade: B+

Northwestern’s defense was nothing short of magnificent at times this past season, and the linebacking corps of Paddy Fisher, Blake Gallagher and Chris Bergin was no exception to that. The back three of the Wildcats’ front seven were all over the field all season long, and while they faltered at points, they put together another solid year.