The offensive line is obviously an incredibly important part of any team. The center is often considered the anchor of the line, responsible for the snap as well as helping the line make proper pre-snap adjustments. A successful center requires a unique set of skills and attributes, ranging from physical traits to mental toughness. Let's explore some of the key qualities a center needs to be successful.
One of the first things to consider when it comes to any lineman is their physical size. The current average height for a center in college football is between 6'2" and 6'4". This height range allows the center to have a good view of the field and to easily communicate with their teammates. Former NFL center Jeff Saturday proves that you can't rely on averages, though. He made 6 Pro Bowl teams and stood just 6 feet tall.
As for weight, centers need to be large and strong enough to hold their ground against defensive linemen. The average weight for a center is between 280 and 320 pounds, although this can vary based on the player's build and position requirements. For example, a center who is responsible for more pass blocking may need to be lighter and quicker on their feet, while a center who primarily blocks for the run game may need to be heavier and more powerful. Jason Kelce of the Philadelphia Eagles, arguably the best NFL center currently playing, is listed at 295 pounds.
By comparison, the offensive tackles have average heights between 6' 4" and 6' 7" and average weights of 300 to 345 pounds. Guards typically stand 6' 3" to 6' 5" with weights between 300 and 330 pounds.
Centers, tackles, and guards all have slightly different physical requirements, but they all share the need for strength, agility, and mental toughness. All three positions require players who can withstand the physical demands of the game and who can quickly adjust to changes in the defense. In addition, all three positions require players who can work well as a team and who can effectively communicate with their teammates to ensure everyone is on the same page.
In addition to size, a center needs to have a variety of physical abilities that allow them to perform effectively. They need to be able to snap the ball accurately and with enough velocity to get it to the quarterback quickly. A center has to know his quarterback’s cadence and preferences (where and how they like to receive shotgun snaps, for example.) They also have to be aware of the snap count or snap signal on every play. You can look up videos on “Flase start on everyone except the center…” to see what happens when they forget.
At the same time they have to be able to perform their assignment for run blocking or pass blocking based on the called play. Centers need to be agile and quick on their feet. They must be able to move laterally and quickly change direction in order to effectively block defenders. This requires good footwork and balance, as well as the ability to stay low to the ground and maintain leverage.
Strength and, more importantly, the ability to apply power and leverage while blocking are probably the most important physical ability of a center. Centers need to be able to hold their ground against defensive players and move or maneuver them to protect the quarterback and open lanes for running backs.
While physical attributes are certainly important for a center, mental toughness and leadership skills are also crucial. They need to be able to stay focused and composed under pressure, whether that's in a noisy stadium or during a critical play. They must be able to read the defense and adjust their blocking accordingly, and they must also be able to communicate effectively with their teammates to ensure everyone is on the same page.
Centers need to be leaders on and off the field. They must set an example for their teammates and hold themselves accountable for their performance. They need to be able to motivate and encourage their teammates, as well as provide guidance and support when needed.
"Football IQ" needs to be both deep and wide for good centers. This comes in big with the ability to make effective line calls on each play. Line calls are an essential part of the game that allow the center to communicate blocking assignments to the rest of the offensive line, based on what the defense is doing before the snap. Line calls can be complex, requiring the center to read the defensive front and make quick decisions on the appropriate blocking assignments. The center must be able to recognize the different fronts and determine how the offensive line must adjust their blocks in order to protect the quarterback or create holes for the backs. To make effective line calls, the center must have a deep understanding of the team's offensive scheme and the plays they will be running. They must know the blocking assignments for the whole line on each play and be able to quickly adjust them based on the defensive front they are facing. They have to be able to communicate these assignments to their teammates in a clear and concise manner.
In order to do this, the center must possess strong leadership and communication skills. They must be able to command the respect of their teammates and effectively communicate their line calls in a high-pressure environment. They must also be able to make adjustments on the fly and ensure that everyone on the offensive line is on the same page.
The best qualities of a center in college football include many physical attributes, such as height, weight, strength, agility, and balance. Mental toughness and leadership skills are just as important, as centers must be able to stay focused under pressure, provide guidance and support for their teammates, and effectively communicate with the rest of the line in a high-pressure environment. The best centers are those who can effectively balance their physical abilities with their mental and emotional strengths.
Take a look at some great stuff for great linemen in the O Line Life collection.
