[Quesadilla Joe]

Von Miller tops ATL's outside linebacker rankings

So far, we have ranked the top running backs and inside linebackers in the league. This week, we turn our attention to the NFL's best outside linebackers.

Top shelf: Von Miller, Clay Matthews, Aldon Smith

The challenge in ranking outside linebackers is that the 4-3 linebacker is off the line, plays more in space, has contain duties and is responsible for picking up running backs and tight ends in coverage, while the 3-4 linebacker primarily rushes the passer. Miller laughs at that dichotomy, combining the best traits of both schemes as the rare 4-3 linebacker who gets after quarterbacks and stuffs the run better than any 3-4 linebacker.

According to Pro Football Focus, the only linebacker within sniffing distance of Miller's combined 86 quarterback sacks, hits and hurries last season was Smith (72). How unique is Miller? No other 4-3 linebacker came within 50 of Miller's total. He's the dictionary definition of an NFL difference-maker.

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap200...acker-rankings

Only a few more weeks until Von comes back