Overlooked Offensive Linemen: Part 2

Earlier this week, we detailed some of the offensive linemen in the Class of 2023 who have been getting overlooked. Today, that process continues with another group of beasts in the trenches. These are prospects who are capable of imposing their will and setting the tone. Team’s will need to monitor their progress as the 2022 season is right around the corner. [player_tooltip player_id="307133" first="Nathan" last="Hovsepian"], 5’10, 260 pounds, Andrean [player_tooltip player_id="307133" first="Nathan" last="Hovsepian"] brings something that is needed more and more from offensive linemen these days: versatility. Hovsepian has the ability to play either center or guard. He has a good first step off the ball. Hovsepian can take defenders head-on or at an angle so he can pin the defensive lineman and open up a running lane. He is outstanding at getting to the second level on run plays and wiping out linebackers. During the blocks, Hovsepian keeps good low leverage and his feet moving. He routinely drives back defenders. [player_tooltip player_id="300566" first="Nathan" last="Pham"], 6’1, 255 pounds, Carmel Similar to Hovsepian, [player_tooltip player_id="300566" first="Nathan" last="Pham"] can provide a lot of assurance along the interior of the offensive line by playing either guard or center. Pham primarily plays guard, but it is good to know that he can slide one spot over to his right in a pinch. Pham frequently positions himself well for each block. Pham has solid mobility, moving across the line well. He displays that same mobility during the block, adjusting his positioning as needed. Pham can get to the second level to further open the running lane. Carmel could be a sleeper team this year. [player_tooltip player_id="300566" first="Nathan" last="Pham"] can lead the way up front in their pursuit of taking a big stride forward. [player_tooltip player_id="300290" first="Hunter" last="Smith"], 5’10, 255 pounds, Bloomington South [player_tooltip player_id="300290" first="Hunter" last="Smith"] has a knack for getting off the ball and being aggressive right from the jump. Smith is good off the ball and his first step is excellent. Smith uses that proactiveness to put the defensive tackle at a disadvantage early in the play. He can initiate the contact and get the defender off balance. Smith showcases a tremendous amount of grit. He can start the play by delivering a thud and he fights all the through the duration of the play. [player_tooltip player_id="299664" first="Alejandro" last="Torres"], 5’11, 235 pounds, Calumet [player_tooltip player_id="299664" first="Alejandro" last="Torres"] can be a force in the middle on both sides of the line. Offensively he sets the tone for his team at guard. Defensively, Torres is a disruptive nose tackle. He gets off the ball quickly and creates an impasse inside. Torres also aids the team’s cause on special teams. Torres serves as an upback on kickoff returns where he helps open up lanes for the returner. [player_tooltip player_id="299664" first="Alejandro" last="Torres"] can serve as a leader for Calumet in the fall.