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Forum nameOkay Sports
Topic subjectDT Ed Oliver, Houston
Topic URLhttp://board.okayplayer.com/okp.php?az=show_topic&forum=8&topic_id=2674013&mesg_id=2674710
2674710, DT Ed Oliver, Houston
Posted by will_5198, Thu Oct-04-18 11:13 PM
I'm not seeing the Aaron Donald comparison -- Donald was already a more skilled rusher in college, and had counter moves to his counters. As far as undersized tackles go, Oliver (6'2, 290) is much closer to Geno Atkins. Both are fists of energy that have the strength to pummel linemen, but with the quickness to beat them without raising a hand.

Being "undersized" is actually an advantage now anyway. The NFL is a quick-passing league, and short guys who play with leverage and can beat you off the snap are way more harassing than a bigger, anchoring tackle.

I will say there are a few serious things he can improve, even with all the top-pick hype that's surrounded him since he was 18. Foremost, his attack plan when rushing the quarterback isn't very advanced. He gets away with it against Tulane and Memphis, but professionals will neutralize him if he doesn't learn more rush techniques.

Still an uncommon talent, however. And he plays a position where every team in the league wants a difference-maker.

+ Outlier physical build at a trim and sculpted 290 pounds
+ The power he generates on first contact is outrageous; grown men are tossed to the ground as if it was their first snap of playing football
+ Moves like a shark, with elite burst and pursuit effort that is unquestionable
+ Can sit against double teams and accustomed to playing through extra blockers

- Hand usage is not always violent, so he can get washed if he doesn't win with leverage off the snap
- Has a nice club-rip as a mainstay, but lacks a deep arsenal of rush moves once opponents adjust