How Oregon State turned a raw athlete into a starting linebacker

Jarrel Comer, a raw athlete from Tallahassee Community College, has transformed into a starting outside linebacker at Oregon State. At 6-foot-4 and 245 pounds, Comer’s athleticism was immediately noticeable to Oregon State’s linebackers coach Cort Dennison, who pursued him to the Beavers. Comer, who played basketball in high school, began his college football career at Citrus College in California after a hiatus of over four years.

He signed with Oregon State in January and arrived at the school in the spring. Comer’s ability to dominate opponents with just his athleticism has been crucial in helping Oregon State’s defense. Defensive coordinator Mike MacIntyre has praised Comer’s speed, stating that he has seen Comer grow leaps and bounds, even just this past season.

Comer has already made an impact, recording 10 tackles, including four in each of the past two games. With the help of offensive line coaches Joe Seumalo and George Frazier, Comer has also learned the finer points of the game, such as pass coverage. This partnership between Comer and defensive end Takari Hickle is expected to generate more pressure and make it difficult for opponents to protect their quarterbacks.

Oregon State will face UTEP in their next game, which is scheduled for Saturday, September 26th at 6 p.m. PT at the Sun Bowl in El Paso, Texas.