Linehan follows in the footsteps of his father, Scott, as a Vandal quarterback. Linehan, a multi-sport athlete, was honored as a blue chip player by the Detroit News after leading St. Mary’s to the state championship game. An all-league selection, he threw for 1,500 yards as St. Mary’s captured the Catholic League title. He also was a key member of St. Mary’s Class A regional basketball  championship during his junior year.

Said Linehan about growing up in a football family: “I’ve learned a ton from my dad and his players over the years. Getting a chance to watch players like Matthew Stafford, Shaun Hill, Nate Burleson, Calvin Johnson, and other players who played the game right has helped me prepare for my football career. What my dad has done for me now will end up helping me in the long run."

Petrino said it’s clear Linehan has been raised around the game – in particular, around quarterbacks.

“He’s just a great athlete with a great motion,” Petrino said. “There isn’t any wasted motion. He has a quick release and a strong arm. I think Matt will end up being a big-time quarterback for us some day.”

His pure athleticism is another bonus. Petrino, who remembers Linehan growing three inches from his junior to his senior year in high school, watched a basketball game during which Linehan accounted for 28 points in his team’s double overtime victory.