As I stated in my scouting report of athlete Bo Scarbrough, when putting together their recruiting board, one of the key attributes that the Alabama coaching staff takes into account before deciding who their top targets are in each recruiting class is versatility.
This is true of any position, but an offensive lineman that can play multiple spots across the line is a treasured find. While there might be linemen in this class who grade higher, none have the versatility of Alabama commit Ross Pierschbacher.
While I do not want to put on him unreasonable expectations, his versatility reminds me of former Crimson Tide great Barrett Jones
Ross Pierschbacher is one of the most intriguing and well-rounded O-Line prospects in the 2014 class. As I mentioned above, the reason he is such an intriguing prospect is because of his versatility.
He is listed as the No. 1 OG by many recruiting services, but he has the ability to play multiple spots along the offensive line. Don’t be surprised if he ends up as a tackle or even a center.
Pierschbacher is the No. 1 recruit for the state of Iowa for a reason. At 6’4 and 290 lbs, he will likely need to put on an additional 20-30 pounds to reach his max potential. However, he has a great frame that should easily put on additional muscle.
Pierschbacher, however, should not rush and put on bad weight because it would hinder one of his greatest strengths which is his balance and lateral mobility.
He is a physical and tenacious run blocker and he comes out of his stance and delivers a good initial pop. Once engaged he takes good controlled steps and finishes the play and drives defenders back. He gets very good hand placement and generates good power from his lower body to maximize power and create push.
Pierschbacher is a pass protector who has the potential be very stout inside. He gets set quickly and keeps a good base and a flat back and displays the ability to mirror defenders well he also gets a good punch to jolt the defenders in front of him.
My favorite thing about Pierschbacher is his motor. I watched hours of film of him and could not find one play that he took off. He is a very physical and tough player who enjoys contact and brings it every single play.
Every recruiting agency has Pierschbacher listed as a 4-star. However, I gave him an additonal ½ star. The reason I did this is because I am convinced he picked the perfect school for his skill set.
He will fit Alabama’s zone blocking schemes perfectly. Moreover, not only does his strengths fit the Crimson Tides schemes, but his weaknesses will easily be corrected at Alabama. For example, he needs to add 20-30 pounds of muscle. However, there is not a better strength and conditioning program in college football.
If he is red-shirted he will easily reach the 310-315 pound mark by the following season and with his versatility will be able to play any position needed on the Crimson Tide offensive line.
His work ethic and motor combined with the resources at Alabama makes Pierschbacher a can’t miss prospect.
Dr. SEC has a weekly radio program, The Waiting Room with Dr. SEC, that broadcast on 14 stations across five states and also has a daily radio program that airs on Bama Sports Radio. His daily writings are syndicated to newspapers and magazines. Visit his website at www.drsec.org and follow him on twitter at twitter.com/thedrsec
