<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>While running backs, receivers, and quarterbacks often get all the attention, let's not forget about those hardworking offensive linemen who often go unnoticed. They may not always get the glory, but they play a crucial role in making sure the team succeeds. Let's give credit where credit is due and recognize a few offensive linemen who are making waves state-wide. </p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Conner Simmermon | Rogers</h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Conner Simmermon (6-2, 283) has adapted into an effective, forceful pulling offensive lineman that has quick recognition of defensive alignments and keys off the snap that he locks onto to create space while pulling around the formation. He is fantastic directly off the snap and does well in controlling the tempo on the line scrimmage with his match-ups to ensure he is the most physical player on the line. With great effort and tenacity during run blocking, Simmermon transitions well also during his pass-blocking assignments with the smarts and quickness to bounce off of his initial assignment to pick up incoming late blitzes that look to wreak havoc.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='716302' first='Aqeelo' last='Allen'] | Marion</h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>[player_tooltip player_id='716302' first='Aqeelo' last='Allen']'s recruiting stock continues to trend upwards going into the 2023 season after being offered by UAPB and granted an invitation to the Tiki Bowl in Hawaii. At 6 foot 3 and weighing 310 pounds, Allen is a true powerhouse, known for his pancake or bust style of play. His upper body strength is so intense that he's able to force defenders backwards as he sets up for a pass block, and his surprising speed makes him a force to be reckoned with on stretch plays. He's become a key player around the edge Marion's offensive formations, creating a wall that running backs can use to bust loose on the exterior. Look for Allen to continue to drag more offers and attention this fall. </p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='746042' first='Kason' last='Jewell'] | Dierks</h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>At 6 foot 3 and weighing 270 pounds, [player_tooltip player_id='746042' first='Kason' last='Jewell'] fearlessly looks to put anyone and everyone on their backs at all times. He's also sneaky quick on quick screen plays, showing off his impressive speed and quickness in tracking down outside linebackers and defensive backs to create a solid foundation for home run plays to occur. Jewell is extremely forceful in the running game and seems to take pride in his abilities of creating great amounts of space and shoving inferior defenders away at will. He's the type of lineman that will wear down defensive players over the course of the game from his will to be better and his tenacity to prove it. With his attributes, it's no surprise that he's been offered by UAPB and will continue to gain more interest with his impressive play.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='858647' first='Mason' last='Barton'] | West Memphis </h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>[player_tooltip player_id='858647' first='Mason' last='Barton'] (6-6, 305) is a behemoth of an individual that is an intimidating sight for any defensive lineman to line up against. Not only does he fit the looks, but Barton shows off incredibly quick feet and impressive strength that seems to make him an immovable object for defenders. With his 83 inch wingspan, he is able to create the separation needed to keep defenders at bay, neutralizing with his large upper body frame. Barton's game is impressive because of his awareness of defensive packages and creative blitzes that impact offensive lineman's abilities to pick up the correct keys. He has garnered offers from Arkansas Tech, Mississippi Valley State and has visited Arkansas State and Missouri. </p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='690378' first='Terence' last='Roberson'] | Warren</h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>[player_tooltip player_id='690378' first='Terence' last='Roberson'] (6-4, 292) is making headlines after a remarkable performance at the University of Arkansas camp in Fayetteville. He's already a well-known name in the world of recruiting and has received scholarship offers from Southeastern Missouri State (SEMO), UA-Monticello, and UAPB. Roberson always seems to be the first off the line, giving him a clear advantage over his opponents. Look for Roberson to continue to trend upward and draw greater amounts of interests following his successful summer camp season and expect a productive 2023 season this fall.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='598943' first='Cooper' last='Anderson'] | Fort Smith Southside</h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>As [player_tooltip player_id='598943' first='Cooper' last='Anderson'] heads into his senior year, he's already made quite a name for himself on the offensive line. He's received offers from a multitude of schools, including Arkansas Tech, North Alabama, East Central University, Northwest Missouri State, and Pittsburg State. Anderson's talent is highlighted in his ability to quickly dispose of his initial match-up, and then steadily make his way to the second level of any defense. He's incredibly disciplined and quick, which allows him to track down even the swiftest linebackers and create space for his running back to make some moves. </p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
While running backs, receivers, and quarterbacks often get all the attention, let's not forget about those hardworking offensive linemen who often go unnoticed. They may not always get the glory, but they play a crucial role in making sure the team succeeds. Let's give credit where credit is due and recognize a few offensive linemen who are making waves state-wide.
Subscribe before Dec. 2 for access to all premium articles and rankings
Subscribe Today!
Already a subscriber?
Log in