The issues Missouri has had at linebacker this spring have been well documented. One player left the program, another was dismissed and three of the remaining top six have missed time this spring due to injury. Despite repeated claims from Gary Pinkel that the Tigers would not move anyone from another position to help out, that's exactly what happened on Tuesday.

Defensive end Tyler Crane has moved to linebacker to help solidify the depth at the position. It was actually Crane's idea.

"He came and talked to us about it," Pinkel said. "It originated with him and we just talked about it as a staff and thought it would be a good move. Obviously, he's got a lot to learn yet."

Crane signed last February as a 6-foot-2, 210-pound senior in high school. In the last year, he has added 15 pounds and is currently listed at 225 on Missouri's spring roster. With his speed, Crane was recruited as a player that could end up either as a defensive end or a linebacker.

Pinkel said he was unsure how Crane would be used in the black and gold game, but that he would probably get some snaps at defensive end.





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