Top Offensive Tackles and Quarterback – In this college football preview, we’ll look at two key aspects of the game: the top returning college offensive tackles and the quarterback situations for several special teams. Offensive tackles are crucial in protecting the quarterback and anchoring the offensive line. Meanwhile, a team’s quarterback situation can greatly impact their success on the field. Let’s watch the top offensive tackles and quarterback situations for the upcoming college football season. The college football betting lines will soon open for bettors to place bets on their favorite teams.
Top Returning College Offensive Tackles
Jonah Monheim, USC
Monheim, a standout right tackle, showcased his athleticism and relentless playing style for the Trojans last season. Although he needs to improve his strength against power rushers, Monheim did not allow a sack or quarterback hit in 570 pass-blocking snaps, according to PFF.
Blake Fisher, Notre Dame
Often overshadowed by his teammates, Fisher is a powerful tackle who started all 13 games for the Fighting Irish last season. While he excels against power rushers, he can struggle against speedier opponents. Fisher’s hand placement and run-blocking abilities make him an asset to the offensive line.
Kelvin Banks Jr., Texas
As a true freshman, Banks held his own at left tackle for the Longhorns. His remarkable pass-blocking skills resulted in a low-pressure rate of 3.5%. Banks can become a future first-round pick if he continues improving his run-blocking.
Will Campbell, LSU
Like Banks, Campbell demonstrated excellent pass-blocking skills with a pressure rate of 2.7% on 515 pass-blocking attempts. He possesses a high pass-blocking grade, making him a strong contender for the top offensive tackle spot in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Jordan Morgan, Arizona
Jordan Morgan‘s promising season was cut short due to an ACL injury. Before his injury, he exhibited outstanding pass-blocking abilities, allowing only one sack and two hits in 420 pass-blocking attempts. Morgan’s intelligence and ability to handle different types of rushers make him an asset on the offensive line.
Kingsley Suamataia, BYU
Suamataia, a natural right tackle for BYU, possesses the potential to be selected as high as or even higher than his former teammate Blake Freeland in the previous draft. He displays impressive athleticism, showing quick acceleration off the line and effectively reaching the second level in the run game. While he occasionally stops moving his feet, Suamataia is expected to proficiently anchor BYU’s right side of the offensive line.
Graham Barton, Duke
Barton stood out as one of the nation’s top tackles during his time with the Blue Devils. His exceptional athleticism enables him to easily navigate the second level in the run game and make up ground in pass protection. According to PFF, Barton was the solo tackle in the country to earn a grade of 85 or higher in both run blocking and pass blocking. Despite lacking elite length, Barton’s performance on the field remains unaffected.
J.C. Latham, Alabama
Latham is undoubtedly one of the nation’s premier tackles and could easily be ranked as the top one or two. His smoothness in pass protection is remarkable, as evidenced by giving up just one hit and zero sacks in nearly 500 pass-blocking snaps last season. Standing at an imposing 6’6″ and weighing 335 pounds, Latham combines his size with impressive athleticism. He excels as a run blocker, exhibiting explosiveness off the line and a tenacious attitude in finishing blocks. With his exceptional skills, Latham could ascend to the top spot on this list by the end of the season, surprising no one.
Quarterback Situations to Watch
Alabama
With uncertainty in Alabama’s quarterback room, the starting position remains up for grabs among Tyler Buchner (Notre Dame), Jalen Milroe, and Ty Simpson. Although Alabama boasts a strong defense and an elite coach in Nick Saban, the quarterback situation raises hesitancy among fans and analysts. The fall season will shed light on who will ultimately lead the team.
Georgia
Carson Beck emerges as the favorite to win the starting job at Georgia after an impressive performance in the spring game. Beck has the potential to excel as a four-star prospect, but competition from Brock Vandagriff and Gunner Stockton will keep the quarterback situation interesting.
Clemson
After D.J. Uiagalelei’s departure, Cade Klubnik remains the only quarterback with significant live snaps for Clemson. The addition of four-star recruit Chris Vizzina brings depth to the quarterback room. Klubnik’s performance, especially replicating his strong showing in the ACC Championship Game, will be crucial to Clemson’s College Football Playoff potential.
Florida State
Jordan Travis has proven himself as a dual-threat quarterback for Florida State. With significant passing improvements in the previous season, Travis’s availability will be essential for the Seminoles’ aspirations. Backup quarterback Tate Rodemaker provides support but needs more game experience.
Ohio State
Kyle McCord and Devin Brown compete for the starting quarterback role at Ohio State. While McCord is expected to secure the job, both options have limited in-game experience. The talented wide receiver room may minimize the challenges the chosen quarterback faces.
Conclusion
As the college football season approaches, keeping an eye on the top offensive tackles and quarterback situations is vital for predicting team success. Offensive tackles are crucial in protecting the quarterback, while quarterbacks hold the key to offensive productivity. The performance and development of these players will heavily influence the outcomes of their respective teams’ seasons. The college football 2023-24 season will take place soon, and top teams are all set to put up a great challenge.
