2023 Overlooked Offensive Linemen

The most effective method to find a diamond is to dig for it. That is altogether fitting since today we will break down a group of diamonds in the rough who can be found dug-in the trenches. These are some of the best offensive linemen in the Class of 2023 who are currently flying under the radar. [player_tooltip player_id="300465" first="Kye" last="Strother"], 6’4, 215 pounds, West Washington [player_tooltip player_id="300465" first="Kye" last="Strother"] is responsible for locking down the left side of the West Washington offensive line, a responsibility that he handles well. The left tackle is an outstanding blocker in the running-game. Strother has good power, allowing him to put defenders on the turf. He has long arms which enable him to initiate the contact and take control of the block. On run plays, Strother positions himself well and he can pin down defensive linemen. [player_tooltip player_id="300465" first="Kye" last="Strother"] has a lot of upside, and he will be looking for a dominant senior campaign. [player_tooltip player_id="300484" first="Logan" last="Bickel"], 5’11, 180 pounds, Northridge [player_tooltip player_id="300484" first="Logan" last="Bickel"] brings the physicality, both on offense and defense. Bickel displays tenacity from the center and middle linebacker positions. Offensively, he does a nice job of maintaining a good low base throughout the block. Being a center can be difficult for the fact that you have to adjust immediately after snapping the ball. But Bickel is good at getting out of his stance and knowing his assignment. He takes on defensive tackles and does a great job of standing his ground. [player_tooltip player_id="300484" first="Logan" last="Bickel"] is poised to lead on both sides of the ball for Northridge next year. [player_tooltip player_id="185532" first="DaCarion" last="Robinson"], 6’2, 270 pounds, Jefferson [player_tooltip player_id="185532" first="DaCarion" last="Robinson"] is a force at left tackle for Jefferson. Robinson gets off the ball and makes an impact right away. Robinson is a top-notch run blocker. He does well sealing the edge and opening up plenty of room outside. He does a nice job of attacking the defender’s outside shoulder and pinning them inside. Robinson is good at cut-blocks, which helps keep defenders off-balance. He has good build to play the tackle position. This year will be a huge season for [player_tooltip player_id="185532" first="DaCarion" last="Robinson"]. [player_tooltip player_id="300201" first="Elijah" last="Buckley"], 5’10, 220 pounds, Eastern [player_tooltip player_id="300201" first="Elijah" last="Buckley"] is an underrated left guard and linebacker who can find ways to contribute to the team. At guard, Buckley shows good speed and mobility. This is helps him tremendously when he has to either pull across the line or kick out. At linebacker, Buckley matches instinctiveness with disruptiveness. On pass plays, Buckley is terrific at reading the eyes of the quarterback and getting in the passing lane. He gets his hands on passes and often comes away with turnovers. When defending against the run, Buckley shows the ability to read and react. [player_tooltip player_id="299997" first="Brady" last="Clark"], 5’10, 125 pounds, Elkhart [player_tooltip player_id="299997" first="Brady" last="Clark"] provides the versatility that teams need. Clark has the ability to play guard, defensive end and long snapper. He has good strength, and he frequently knocks the defender off the ball. As a long snapper, Clark is very reliable. He handles the snapping duties for placekicking, putting the ball right where it needs to be. [player_tooltip player_id="299997" first="Brady" last="Clark"] looks set to play a leading role for Elkhart this season. Teams need to keep an eye on his progress throughout the fall.