Ryan Kelly, to the absolute surprise of no one, was named a Rimington Trophy finalist last evening.
The award is given to the nation's top center, and, as most expected even going into the season, Kelly has earned his keep this season:
As senior leader and anchor of the Alabama offensive line, Kelly has made all offensive line calls during his 34-career starts. He has graded out at an average of 88.4 percent, including five games over 90 percent, and has not graded out below 84 percent all season. Kelly only missed eight assignments in 948 snaps for a success rate of 99.2 percent and has 16 knockdown blocks from his center position. He also has not allowed a sack this season and only surrendered four quarterback hurries.
Powerful, compact, good feet and instincts, smart, and with a nasty streak to boot, Kelly will be making bank for the next decade in the NFL.
Ryan Kelly joins Michigan State's Jack Allen and Austin Blythe of Iowa (funny how line play puts one in position to win championships, eh?)
Good luck, and Roll Tide, Ryan.