Phillip Dillard brought veteran-instinct, gap discipline, and Big 12 production to Nebraska’s linebacker room
In the 2009 season, Phillip Dillard was a second-team All-Big 12 linebacker for Nebraska, finishing with 83 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, and three sacks after missing the first two games[1][6]. His game stands out for steady downhill play, reliable run support, and the kind of instinctive consistency that coaches love in the middle of a defense; he also added pass-breakup ability and a knack for being around the football[1][6]. For a team looking for a tough, no-drama linebacker with proven production and leadership vibes, Dillard absolutely checks the box[6][11].
