Nolan Ulizio (image via Journal-News)
Name: Nolan Ulizio
Height: 6’5″
Weight: 291 lbs.
High school: West Chester (OH) Lakota West
Position: Offensive tackle
Class: Redshirt freshman
Jersey number: #70
Last year: I ranked Ulizio #88 and said he would redshirt (LINK). He redshirted.
Ulizio was a late addition to the class of 2015 when Michigan stole him away from UConn. He was bound to redshirt with so many experienced players ahead of him, so it was no surprise that he spent his first year watching from the sideline. But this spring he gave a decent showing in practice and in the spring game, acquitting himself fairly well against some good defensive linemen. As a right tackle, he could sub in this year and be fine during mop-up time. The starter is Erik Magnuson, who could himself move to left tackle or offensive guard if injuries occur. If the Wolverines decide to use a sixth offensive lineman at times, like they have in the past, it’s usually an offensive tackle. So even if Patrick Kugler backs up at center and David Dawson fills in occasionally at guard, Ulizio might carve out a unique role on his own. And with few offensive tackles in the pipeline, he has a chance to establish himself for a potential starting role in 2017.
Prediction: Backup offensive tackle
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As with Runyan, I like the optimism for a young unproven OLmen. These guys deserve to be ranked this high (despite not having played yet) because the OL is a critical position with no proven depth (beyond the 4 returning starters).
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Except that unlike your backup Dlinemen, CBs, RBs or WRs, your second string Olinemen will never play when it matters unless someone gets hurt.
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True, but it’s 5 guys, so someone usually does get hurt. Michigan has been pretty fortunate with OL health the last 5+ years so I think perceptions may be a little skewed about the risk here.
Furthermore, the doubts about Newsome, Kalis, and even Magnuson are on-going. If any take a step back for any reason Michigan will be hunting for another option.
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I actually thought Ulizio looked better than Newsome in the spring scrimmage. Certainly way ahead of some recent OT’s at the same stage (Bushell-Beatty, Tuley-Tillman). His floor to me is that of a very good back-up OL, but guessing that Ulizio is a starter in ’18. Nice, late pick up by the staff.
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meant ’17….
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