Washington State Football 2012 Evals: DE/LB Logan Mayes

Sept. 8, 2012; Pullman, WA, USA; Washington State Cougars linebacker Logan Mayes (83) tries to bring down Eastern Washington Eagles quarterback Kyle Padron (2) during the first half at Martin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports

Stats: 26 Tackles (15 solo, 11 assisted), 2.5 sacks, 4 QB hurries, 1 Forced Fumble.

What he accomplished in 2012: Logan showed a lot of promise is last years’ spring game, registering 5 “sacks” in the contest, causing a lot of fans to get really excited about this kid. With good reason to, he is a quick speed rusher, who shows a great knack for getting to the QB. However, he was backing up arguably one of the best DE/LB in the conference in Travis Long, and that made getting on the field a bit difficult for Logan.

Mayes was just a sophomore last year, and it was his first year learning the BUCK position, so he was still extremely raw. With that being said, he showed glimpse’s of  a dominant pass rusher; I think everybody remembers the final defensive play in the apple cup, him running a stunt to the middle, dragging down Keith Price as he throws, leading to the interception by Toni Pole.

What I expect in 2013: Logan will be the starter heading into spring, and most likely fall. He will have some competition though; mostly from new comer Ivan McLennan. If he doesn’t want to get passed up on the depth chart, Logan needs to just continue on the path he is on. Each year he has shown tremendous growth, now with no Travis Long, the door is open for Logan to take that starter role.

Mayes still has a smaller frame, so I would love to see him add some good weight and muscle. He also needs to improve his coverage skills, because although the BUCK position will most likely be rushing the QB, they still drop back into coverage from time to time, and let’s be honest, these Pac 12 QBs notice a D line man dropping back into coverage.

All in all, I think Mayes will be the starter come the start of the season. I do however think the BUCK position will be a heated competition all year long, I really like McLennan, but I also really like Mayes. I think they both push each other and we see a lot of production out of that position. Finally, some depth and competition!

GO COUGS!