University of Buffalo defensive coordinator Lou Tepper has worked with several great linebackers in 48 years of coaching.

Through his experience, Tepper, who served as the defensive coordinator of the gold-medal winning 2011 U.S. Men’s National Team, has developed a system for evaluating what makes players at the position successful, which he shared with AFCAWeekly.com.

Frequently referred to as “the quarterbacks of a defense,” linebackers are counted on to be vocal leaders on a football team. Here are four attributes Tepper says all players at the position need to be great.

• Hard work. It’s obvious that success begins with hard work. The seniors, captains, quarterbacks and linebackers form a team’s nucleus that sets the standard for the work ethic of the entire group. If this group does not demonstrate and demand hard work, the coach’s job becomes frustrating.
• Enthusiasm. All effective leaders have to be enthusiastic. Because of their position, linebackers must exhibit a genuine zeal for performing and optimism for the future of the defensive unit.
• Purpose. No leader can succeed without a blueprint for success. A linebacker can work diligently and be eager, but he must show teammates how they can win. The leader must have a defined plan of action for the defensive unit to rally around.
• Cohesiveness. A linebacker who leads must recognize the contributions of each of his teammates. Linebackers can’t be fainthearted, or their teammates’ hearts will falter. The leader must bring unity by showing a confident heart and promoting the value of each team member.