Smith May Be Valuable in the Future

April 17, 2007 by Steve Hanway

Among the story lines this spring was the move of former defensive end recruit Mike Smith to the offensive line. With all of the positive vibes surrounding the offensive line both this fall and in the upcoming recruiting class, it’s understandable that this might pass without much fanfare. But when you look at Smith’s frame (now listed as 6’6” and 285 lbs.) as well as the similar and successful switch made by Chris Patrick, you realize that he is another very viable candidate in the mix for the future.

Barring any major new developments, Carl Nicks will be Nebraska’s starter at left tackle in 2007. There’s competition to back him up. The other lineman from the class of 2006 (D.J. Jones, Keith Williams, Cruz Barrett, and Victory Haines) would have a slight edge in terms of preparation over Smith, simply because they have been preparing to be offensive lineman since they arrived on campus and Smith didn’t join the offense until the spring. There’s also some likelihood that Matt Slauson would be moved from guard to tackle if needed, to shore up the position.

But look just one year further to 2008 and you’ll see Nicks and Haines graduate (along with center Brett Byford). Yes, by then Jaivorio Burkes, Marcel Jones, and possibly even Aaron Schulte will also be in the mix. That’s a lot of competition. But it will also mean that some of the long lineman might get a chance to play inside. If Smith doesn’t find a spot in 2008, he’ll soon have the heralded class of 2008 to compete with in 2009. So another possibility might be to make Smith an Aaron Golliday-sized tight end or to move an offensive lineman (not necessarily Smith) back to the defensive line. As is true anywhere, when a team has depth, it has options.

In any case, it gives hope that the days of feeling shorthanded on the offensive line are truly nearing an end. No longer do the Huskers have to pin their hopes on a few guys. That’s essential to lasting through 12-14 games over the course of a season. Who knows if the Huskers might have eked out victories against Oklahoma or Auburn had Matt Slauson hadn't suffered an ankle injury? With quality depth, it’s not a concern and Smith might a guy that can provide it.

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