With Alabama becoming an offensive juggernaut the success begins with the offensive line. While Tua Tagovailoa might get most of the recognition for the numbers Alabama puts up the SEC is finally acknowledging one of the true leaders for Alabama, Ross Piersbacher. Piersbacher has been named the SEC Offensive Lineman of the Week for his success with the offense against Arkansas but Piersbacher has shown success throughout the season and throughout his four years as a starter.
Originally a left guard, Piersbacher has shown his durability and intelligence to move from his typical left guard to position to take over for Bradley Bozeman. Piersbacher follows in a line of great centers for Alabama including Antoine Caldwell, William Vlachos, Barrett Jones, Ryan Kelly, and Bradley Bozeman. Piersbacher has become one of the leaders of the Tide offense and the team and has shown his presence this year.
In the Arkansas game, Piersbacher helped block for Damien Harris’ first one hundred yard game of the season and helped protect Tua Tagovailoa allowing him to throw for more than 300 yards. On top of the success he had with individual players Piersbacher did not allow a sack, penalty or quarterback pressure. In addition to protecting the quarterback, Piersbacher had four knockdown blocks from his center position.
The Alabama offensive line helped the offense account for 639 yards of total offense and nobody on the line allowed a sack. The offensive line now ranks sixth in the country in sacks allowed and continue to be successful in the offensive attack.
Piersbacher might not get the credit he deserves for his success but he has shown that he is capable in his new role. With the continuous success of the offensive line, Damien Harris has a shot at his third 1,000 yard season and Piersbacher could be a top draft pick in the spring.
