Brandon Spikes

Spikes, a first-team All-SEC selection each of the past three years, wasn't the most popular quarterback in Gainesville. But he was arguably just as effective as the quarterback of the defense. Rated the top senior linebacker in the country by BLESTO and National Scouting services prior to the 2009 season, Spikes had 307 tackles, 31.5 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks and six interceptions in his career. However, Spikes' production fell dramatically each of his three seasons. In 2007, Spikes posted an impressive 131 tackles, including 16 tackles for loss. He followed that up with 93 tackles, eight tackles for loss, four interceptions -- two returned for scores -- and two sacks in '08. Bothered by a strained groin as a senior, Spikes production fell to 68 tackles, including 6.5 tackles for loss, three sacks and two interceptions. Some of Spikes' decline in production has to do with his teammates around him developing while teams did a better job scheming to stop Spikes. While he's athletic enough in coverage and as a blitzer that some scouts feel he'll adjust nicely outside, Spikes' value lies in his versatility and explosiveness. His 5.0 40 at his pro day (didn't run at the Combine) will make teams wonder about his speed, however, and may cost him a spot in the top two or three rounds.

tackling

Explosive wrap-up tackler who can separate the football from the ball carrier. Good athletic ability and balance to break down in space to make the tackle against smaller, quicker athletes. Doesn't consistently pursue with the reckless abandon normally associated with the position.

pass rush/blitz

Effective stand-up blitzer. Varies his speed off the edge and uses his explosive upper-body strength to push blockers into the pocket. Good strength and lateral agility to slide off blocks and pressure the passer.

intangibles

Suspended for one game in 2009 for attempting to gouge the eyes of a Georgia running back Washaun Ealey. Spikes was not penalized on the play, but was suspended for the first half of the Vanderbilt game by coach Urban Meyer after his film review of the play. Spikes extended the suspension, himself, to a full game in an effort to not be a distraction to the team. Voted a team captain in 2008-09 and was a member of the 2008 UF Football leadership Committee. Returned for his senior campaign despite earning a first-day grade from the NFL Advisory Committee. Good bloodlines. Cousin, Takeo Spikes, plays inside linebacker for the San Francisco 49ers.

run defense

Rare size and explosive punch to quickly disengage from blocks. Likes to initiate action and is physical shedding blocks. Can be undisciplined. Attacks the line of scrimmage so aggressively versus the run that he leaves cutback lanes for quick-footed runners to exploit. Can get locked up with blockers if his initial pop is absorbed. Needs to work on his use of hands to disengage.

pass defense

Quick footwork to get depth in coverage. Very good reading the quarterback's eyes while in coverage. Breaks downhill quickly to close on the ball and arrives with attitude.

read & react

Quick to diagnose and has good speed to the ball. Has the speed to beat the back to the edge, good athletic ability and little to no wasted motion.

nfl comparison

Takeo Spikes

Four-year starter at linebacker and defensive end for Crest Senior High School

Listed as the No. 1 prospect in North Carolina in 2006 by Rivals.com

Considered the No. 13 linebacker prospect by Rivals.com

Rated as the No. 6 overall prospect in the country according to Scout.com

Selected to participate in the U.S. Army All-American Game

Was a team captain and totaled 74 tackles, four sacks and four interceptions as a senior. Moved to linebacker sophomore season and stayed there ever since

Lost 30 pounds from his playing weight as junior

Helped lead Crest High School to the North Carolina state semifinal round as a senior

Posted 98 tackles, including three sacks, seven interceptions and forced five fumbles from his linebacker position

Chose Florida over Alabama, North Carolina State and Virginia Tech.

Brother, Breyon Middlebrooks, was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life without parole in North Carolina after arrest in 2001.