When I study tape on college tackles here is what I look for. Feet - this skill is so important. The feet are the foundation to all the technique work that will be tested at the NFL level. Hip and Hand Movement - what kind of position are they are in as they pass block and run block, do they play to high or are they in a good football position at all times with their knees bent and hips down in an explosive position ready to attack. I also study them on every play to see if they  have a little nasty streak in them, I have always felt if that left tackle position plays mean it is a big plus. Here is the list of the 5 guys I have looked at starting from highest rated and down.

1. Jason Smith, Baylor - first thing that stands out he is nasty and wants to destroy everything in his way. Although, because he is so aggressive he will miss at times, but he is very athletic and has great feet. Also, he moves his hips very well and has active hands in both run blocking and pass blocking. Of all the tackles I watched Jason has the fewest flaws.

2.  Eben Briton, Arizona - I love how he keeps a good base as he comes off the ball, he comes off the ball square and with good  leverage and that helps him move people off the ball.  One thing to take not is that the guys in the NFL will be 50 - 80 pounds heavier than at the college level and much more proficient in technique and speed. He will have to improve his own technique to make up for the talent difference between college and the NFL.  As a pass blocker his feet are very good and his base is good but he still does not move his hips great and the quicker pass rusher’s will give him trouble.

3.  Michael Oher, Mississippi - great hips and very good feet which allows him to move with his great athleticism.  He moves well as a pass blocker and has good hands, but is not a dominate run blocker.

4.  Eugene Monroe, Virginia - very athletic, moves well and keeps a very good base in pass blocking and run blocking. He lacks on the physical side and would get bull rushed a lot at the college level. When I see that, it concerns me because the NFL guys will take advantage of that weakness down after down. He also uses his hands very and is an above average pass blocker.

5. Andre Smith, Alabama - this guy mauls people off the ball and drives them 5 to 10 yards back and at times it looks like a man among boys.  One concern that I have with these type of guys in college is the weight difference when they arrive in the NFL.  The very best college player he played last year will be the worst NFL player he faces.  He also struggled with quick pass rushers, especially the ones that went inside on him. The last thing I noticed is his sub par pass rushing skills and that will present a huge problem in the NFL. This will need to be a major focal point for him wherever he lands.