Barrett Jones (6'5", 280), a 2008 signee and newcomer this fall, will likely start his college career as a center as well. While he never manned the center position during his high school career, he did play there during an All-Star game after his senior season.
An interesting possibility at center in terms of depth is former defensive lineman Brian Motley (6'2", 280). Motley, a sophomore, moved to center this past spring after a broken finger limited what he could do on defense. He occupied the center position in high school, but had played nose guard since arriving in Tuscaloosa.
It is unclear at this point if the staff will keep Motley at center, or move him back to the defensive line. In the end, the overall depth at those respective positions could determine his destination.
Another player in the mix for some possible playing time at center is redshirt freshman William Vlachos, who has taken reps at both center and guard in practice.
The right guard position will likely be held down by senior Marlon Davis (6'4", 290). Davis started eight games last year at right guard (he was suspended for four games). He also combined for five starts and saw action in 12 other games during his freshman and sophomore seasons.
Davis is perhaps the most underrated lineman on the squad, but he has had some problems staying motivated in the past. He has responded well under the guidance of Coach Pendry, however, and proved that he can be a dominating run blocker.
The job of backing Davis up will likely fall on the shoulders of William Vlachos (6'1", 295). Vlachos is a high-motor player who has been impressive in scrimmage work and does have some limited game action on his resume. He is a weight room warrior and has a bright future in terms of playing time ahead of him.
Incoming freshman John Michael Boswell (6'5", 305) might also get a strong look at the right guard position. Juan Garnier (6'4", 315), a junior walk-on, will add depth to both guard positions.
Garnier is a journeyman on and off the field who transferred to Alabama last year from Ohio State, and has now suited up for three different programs. While he spent his time on the defensive line in the past, Garnier worked at guard exclusively during the spring.
Right tackle is the position that most Tide fans will have their eyes on this August. While the list of candidates might not have a ton of experience collectively, they certainly do not lack depth and potential.
Mike Johnson has the most experience at right tackle, but he is probably better suited to play guard. If needed, however, either he or Antoine Caldwell could man the right side of the line, as both have done in the past.
The other guys that will be fighting for the spot include junior Drew Davis (6'7", 276), sophomore Taylor Pharr (6'6", 281), and incoming freshmen Tyler Love (6'7", 300) and John Michael Boswell.
Davis and Pharr battled each other for the position throughout spring practice. In the end, it seemed as if Davis got the upper hand. However, both have very limited game experience.
The staff will be looking to both Love and Boswell to come in ready to contribute. Both of these young players have the potential to not only make some noise—either could earn the starting job as a true freshman.
To illustrate how good of an opportunity they have, both were encouraged to spend a good bit of time this spring watching the Tide practice in an effort to become familiar with the schemes and terminology of the system.
In fact, Boswell, who resides in Tuscaloosa, attended every single practice and also spent time reviewing film, which will only help him when it is time to put on the pads this August.
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