As the former leader of the LSU offensive front, can this center transition to being the heart of the Vikings offensive line?
One of the best offensive lineman in school history, LSU center Ethan Pocic is the definition of what it means to be the heart and soul of an offensive front. Pocic was a three-year starter, recording 37 career starts (27 at center, 9 at right guard, 1 at left tackle).
The most shocking trait about Pocic is his size. At 6-foot-6, 300 pounds he is taller than the average NFL center. With the size of interior defensive lineman rapidly increasing, many teams prefer short, and compact built centers because it enables them to gain natural leverage against defenders.
What makes the first team All-American so intriguing is the balance, consistency and versatility in his playing style. In 28 of the 37 games Pocic started, LSU recorded a 100-yard rusher.
Despite his tall stature, Pocic has shown to be an above average athlete. He excels at pulling and maintaining his balance to block smaller targets.
#LSU C Ethan Pocic flashes his ability to anchor #seniorbowl pic.twitter.com/WBMPGr68Ez
— Josh Liskiewitz (@PFF_Josh) January 25, 2017
He excels at hand placement and mirroring defensive lineman in tight spaces. His hands are like vice grips once he latches on to defenders.
Pocic is average in pass protection, but he only surrendering one sack last season. Where he struggles is gaining natural leverage. This is expected being that he is 6-foot-6. On occasions, interior defensive lineman are able to get into his chest and push him backward. This was evident last season against Auburn.
He must learn to play with a better base, allowing him to play maintain better pad level. Pocic is really susceptible against the bull rush, allowing nose tackles to collapse the interior of the pocket.