"Linebacker U." again will feature one of the nation's premier units, led by seniors Gerald Hodges and Michael Mauti and junior Glenn Carson, all of whom have made double-digit career starts. But, the search to develop younger linebackers, get them ready to play and provide depth never ends and will be critical this fall with a pair of senior starters who will be post-season honors candidates. Ben Kline is ready to take on the challenge of preparing to be a contributor for the defense after taking a redshirt season as a freshman. The athletic Kline has good size, skills and instincts and should have an opportunity to earn time in the linebacker rotation and play on special teams this year. In the 2012 Blue-White game, he made a strong impression with five tackles and an interception. Kline is one of the squad's premier students, compiling a 3.94 grade-point average during the spring semester for Dean's List recognition. He brought a superlative 3.92 GPA into the summer academic session and is a potential Academic America and Academic All-Big Ten candidate.
2011 Freshman Season
Redshirt season.
High School
Kline was named York-Adams League Division I Player-of-the-Year under Coach Kevin Myers at Dallastown Area High School. As a senior, Kline led Dallastown to an 11-1 record and its first York-Adams League Division I title in 30 years, playing on both sides of the ball. He led the team with an impressive 152 tackles (93 solo), while recording 1.5 sacks and three interceptions. He contributed nearly 850 yards of offense (rushing and receiving) and 13 touchdowns. Kline was the first freshman to start on the Dallastown varsity. He also was a decorated sprinter on the track and field team.
Personal
Full name is Benjamin Richard Kline. He is the son of Rick and Lisa Kline and has a sister, Taylor. He enjoys snowboarding, fishing and hunting. Born October 31, 1992 in York, Pa.
