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The offensive line is players that line up on the line of scrimmage, whose primary job is to block the defensive players. The offensive line consists of a center, two guards, and two offensive tackles. The center lines up in the middle of the line; he is the one who snaps the ball to the quarterback. The two guards line up directly on both sides of the center and inside the tackles. The offensive tackles play on the outside of both guards. The offensive line usually consists of some of the biggest and strongest guys on the team. For example the average size for an offensive lineman in the NFL is around 6 feet 4 inches tall and 300 pounds. These guys use their size and strength to protect the quarterback, and to open up holes for the running back. The offensive line is one of the most important parts of a football team. You could have the best quarterback and running back in the world, but without a good offensive line they would not be successful. Even though the offensive line is one of the most important parts of a football team, they usually go unnoticed. In fact the only few times they are noticed, is when an official calls a penalty on one of them.
CHARACTERISTICS OF A GOOD OFFENSIVE LINEMAN
1. Must have the size and strength to play on the offensive line.
2. Must have quickness, offensive linemen are not the fastest guys on the team, but they must have quick movement for the first 5 to 10 yards.
3. Must know how to play all of the offensive line positions. A good offensive lineman should be able to fill in at tackle, guard, or center.
4. Must have intelligence, a good offensive lineman should know what he and the other linemen are supposed to do. He should also be able to anticipate what the defense is going to do before the play begins.
5. Must be aware on the playing field, besides the quarterback the offensive line needs to be the most aware player on the field. They must know overall game plan, game situation, and know how to recognize multiple defenses.
6. Must have determination and mental toughness, a good offensive lineman must be able to take a pounding series after series. He must give a maximum effort play after play, because he knows it will pay off late in the game.
