The Big Ten is known for its powerful offense and great offensive lines, but I am not so sure that will be the case this year. At the offensive tackle position, there are two top-flight, elite-level possible first-round draft choices and then there are a few guys with the potential to break out.
The two top-flight prospects are numbers one and two, but the order of those players will surprise most. The third player chosen isn’t even a projected starter by most pundits but was a highly recruited kid with some serious hype.
Ohio State fans may be a little disappointed by the absence of Buckeyes, but when comparing what resides in Columbus to the rest of the conference, it makes sense.
3
Nolan Rucci, Wisconsin
Can’t WAIT to watch Nolan Rucci put on a Wisconsin Uniform. 5 stars for a reason!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ #OLU pic.twitter.com/3Xw94dawZc— IKE Badgers Podcast (@IKE_Badgers) June 2, 2021
Why the Pick
The former five-star from Pennsylvania isn’t slated to start, but don’t be surprised to see him in the lineup before the seasons end. Rucci is primed to break out as an elite tackle as a sophomore.
Nolan Rucci is in at #14! pic.twitter.com/MFsEEDw1zG
— Top Prospects OTD (@OtdTop) August 2, 2020
2
Olumuyiwa Fashanu, Penn State
Why the Pick
Olumuyiwa Fashanu is an absolute stud and he’s still not even close to being a finished product. Fashanu would have likely been an early-round selection had he decided to declare for the NFL early.
Penn State LT Olumuyiwa Fashanu is the reason this play happens. Heads up play to see the LB triggered down and just gets enough of him to clear him out and spring Clifford. pic.twitter.com/UYf8udGYLu
— Bobby Football (@Rob__Paul) October 15, 2022
1
Julian Pearl, Illinois
Why the Pick
Julian Pearl is another elite stud that would have heard his name called early in the most recent NFL draft. Pearl has NFL-caliber athleticism and length that are made even more dangerous given he recently made the transition from the defensive line.
Posting a few clips from one of the performances that caught my eye this past weekend: Illinois LT #54 Julian Pearl.
He was on the front end of a few big runs on Saturday. I like how he tempos up after chipping the DE here, then seals out the LB in space with his length. pic.twitter.com/7ySV1dzpHr
— Ian Cummings (@IC_Draft) August 29, 2022
