All-County linebackers: First team

JORDAN ZUMWALT
Edison High School
6-4, 207, Junior
Linebacker
Highlights: He was described by his coach, Dave White, as an "old-school linebacker with a nose for the football." His numbers provide the proof: Zumwalt recorded 111 tackles, two sacks, one fumble recovery, two interceptions and blocked five kicks. He was selected as Sunset League co-defensive player of the year as a junior, which is quite an accomplishment.

SCOTT GRAVES
Tesoro High School
5-11, 215, Senior
Linebacker
Highlights:Described by Coach Brian Barnes as a "bulldog," Graves' tenacious effort was a key reason why Tesoro's had the success it did on defense. He led the Titans with 134 tackles. He also had 13 tackles for loss and 8.5 sacks. He also had one interception. "He has a great knack for the game," Barnes said. "He's not the biggest, but he makes plays." He is being courted by several Division I-AA schools.

GARRET GILLILAND
Orange Lutheran High School
6-0, 205, Junior
Linebacker
Highlights: The Lancers boasted one of the best defenses in the county, and Gilliland played a key role. After his sophomore season in which he recorded 45 tackles, Gilliland made a huge jump in productivity, finishing with 76 tackles, 24 tackles for loss, 11 sacks and two caused fumbles. He was voted Trinity League Defensive MVP for his efforts.

AARON GARBUTT
Westminster
6-1, 196, Senior
Linebacker
Highlights: Garbutt can best be described as the ultimate "team player." He made two position switches this season, from receiver to running back on offense and from safety to linebacker on defense. He recorded 110 tackles, 10 tackle for losses, three sacks and two interceptions. He also caused and recovered three fumbles. For all of that, he was tabbed as the Golden West League MVP. He has received interest from several Pac-10 schools and Fresno St.

Contact the writer: dcalhoun@ocregister.com