NCAA Scouting - Player Profile:
Keith Rivers, OLB
by Sam Monson
10/3/2008
 
Keith Rivers is the next in a long line of excellent linebackers to come out of USC, and he brings the same traits that the NFL has come to expect from them. Rivers has established himself as the class of the 2008 Draft's linebackers, and should be taken inside the first 20 picks come April.
 
Coming out of Lake Mary High School, Rivers was a dream recruit for USC. He was amongst the nation's most desired players, making numerous All-American first teams, featuring in the Super Prep Elite 50, the Prep Star Top 100 Dream Team, and Tom Lemming's Top 100. In his final three seasons at High School, Rivers recorded over 100 tackles in each year, and was building a reputation as a playmaking linebacker.
 
At USC Rivers proved to be a versatile player, occasionally being used at DE in pass rushing situations, but his college career was hampered somewhat by nagging injuries. Rivers featured in 49 games as a Trojan, starting 35. He recorded 240 tackles over his college career, 5.5 sacks, and 19 stops for loss.
 
What we like about Rivers
 
Rivers shows excellent range, with the ability to play sideline to sideline. He's a true athlete, with the ability to make plays all over the field. NFL personnel will love his ability to stack and shed blockers, something that many NFL linebackers struggle mightily with. He shows excellent hand placement and use in his game, allowing him to keep blockers at a distance and react to the play in front of him. Is capable in coverage, with the athleticism to run with running backs and tight ends underneath. At his best on the move when flowing to the ball, or when moving about in coverage.
 
Question marks about Rivers
 
Rivers has been subject to a few nagging injuries during his college career and his durability must be a question to NFL personnel. Doesn't have the strength to combat a double team, and can be physically dominated by bigger blockers. He also has a tendency to aim for the big hit rather than wrap-up tackle, and likes to arm tackle too much, something that won't wash in the NFL. Is thought to just be an average student, and could have issues picking up a complicated playbook.
 
Highlight of his college career
 
Rivers himself believes his proudest moment on the football field was his performance against Notre Dame during his sophomore season. USC won 34-31 with a last second touchdown from Matt Leinart.
 
Other snippets

• 52 of Rivers' 240 tackles, and 10 of his 19 stops for loss came on 3rd down.

• Wore #55 at USC, the same jersey number as Chris Claiborne, Willie McGinest and Junior Seau.

• Could be closely compared to Chad Greenway

• Potential good fits would be: Buffalo Bills, Cincinnati Bengals, Denver Broncos.