The success of the Texas A&M Aggies under Head Coach Kevin Sumlin was largely attributed to previous quarterback Jonny Manziel. His replacement, the highly touted Kenny Hill, is also getting rave reviews after two impressive performances.
Introducing the Maroon Goons of the Texas A&M Offensive Line
But the most underrated part of the Aggies success since their big move to the SEC is the offensive line. The high selection is recent drafts of left tackles Luke Joeckel, second overall pick to the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2013, and Jake Matthews, sixth overall pick to the Atlanta Falcons in 2014, shows some recognition for how good they have been. But across the whole line they have been excellent and have continued that so far this year.
So let’s introduce the five starters on the offensive line:
Cedric Ogbuehi, Left Tackle
Ogbuehi is said to be the next in a long line of highly touted left tackles who have been drafted in the top ten of the NFL Draft after manning the position for Texas A&M. Some draft analysts have said he has a higher ceiling than his two predecessors, Matthews and Joeckel. He has shown great versatility over the years as well as having started as a right guard in 2012 before moving to right tackle last year. His impressive athleticism for a player his size is a huge asset.
Jarvis Harrison, Left Guard
The senior started all of last year at left guard and was named to the All-SEC third string team which is still an impressive honor considering the strength of the offensive lines in the conference. Like Ogbuehi, he is hoping to be drafted quite high this year as he’s projected to be in the top dozen or so prospects at guard. His impressive run blocking this year for the Aggies running backs have certainly helped in that regard.
Mike Matthews, Center
The younger brother of former Aggie and Atlanta Falcons tackle Jake Matthews, Mike was the starter last year alongside his brother. He is another offensive lineman who is expected to be drafted highly whether he decides to come back for his senior year or not. He’s shown himself to be very reliable in snapping the ball so far, and against South Carolina, he was efficient in both pass and run blocking.
Joseph Cheek, Right Guard
Easily the most physical of the Maroon Goons, Cheek stands at over 6’7 and is currently slotted in at right guard. He is another player hoping to make the transition to tackle next year presuming he comes back for his senior year. He started 12 games last year but competition is fierce at the guard position with Garrett Gramling waiting in reserve.
Germain Ifedi, Right Tackle
Ifedi moved over from right guard last year and in many ways is following the same path as Cedric Ogbuehi who is playing on the other side of the line. He made the All-American Freshman team last year whilst playing at guard so the Aggies coaches clearly have high hopes for him. The sophomore has a huge 6’5 frame and is slated to move over to left tackle next year.
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Main Photo
Credit Brownwen Gregory via Bronwengregory.zenfolio.com
