CUSA Top 5 Linebackers 2023: #5 Hugh Davis

The last decade of Conference USA football has provided fans with memorable moments and numerous standout athletes who have been among the players in college football at their respective positions.

This upcoming season sees four new programs enter the league as the latest incarnation of CUSA football will kickoff with FIU versus Louisiana Tech in a Week Zero matchup on August 26.

As six programs depart for the American, over 70% of last season’s all-conference performers are no longer part of the league — opening the door for several returning and new players to take spots among CUSA’s best. Additionally, 81% of the league’s defensive players with year-end recognitions in 2022 are no longer part of the league, due to graduation or realignment.

With less than 30 days until the start of the 2023 season, we begin our annual rundown of the top players at each position in Conference USA — continuing with a look at our top-five returning linebackers in the league.

5. Hugh Davis – Louisiana Tech

After beginning his career in the ACC with Boston College, Louisiana Tech linebacker Hugh Davis earned a starting job in his first season with the Bulldogs and led the team in tackles with 79 and added four tackles for loss, three pass breakups, a quarterback hurry and a fumble recovery.

The 6'0", 230-pound Davis stepped into the role of captain of the defense once Tyler Grubbs was lost for the season and now with Grubbs’ transfer to Tulane, will lead the defensive unit from day one in 2023.

Davis was the top-rated linebacker in the state of Indiana coming out of high school as part of the class of 2017 and will look to have his first triple-digit tackle season in his collegiate career.