Countdown to 2018 IUFB Kickoff: 72 Days (Simon Stepaniak)

Written By: Alex Compton

COUNTDOWN TO KICKOFF: #72- SIMON STEPANIAK

Height: 6’4’’
Weight: 303 pounds
Hometown: Hamilton, Ohio
Year: Redshirt Junior
Position: Guard

One of the unquestioned strengths of the 2018 Hoosiers will be the offensive line. They return every major contributor from last season, and now add in a graduate transfer and some talented freshmen to the mix as well. Three of the spots on the line are likely set barring anything unforeseen at this point (Coy Cronk- LT, Wes Martin- LG, Brandon Knight- RT), but right guard should be up for grabs when camp rolls around. Simon Stepaniak is going to be a major factor on the line whether or not he starts week to week, but staying healthy is going to be the key for him. 

Stepaniak only appeared in 6 games for IU last year, and they were all starts. In his absence, redshirt sophomore-to-be Mackenzie Nworah really showed some positive signs, and will be the other guy that battles for that starting spot at right guard. Stepaniak is a very sturdy pass blocker, while Nworah really flashed his potential last year getting out to the second level in the running game. Playing time for these guys could be based on matchups, and that's perfectly fine. Stepaniak is a very solid interior lineman in the Big Ten, and if he gets beat out by Nworah, that means IU is in terrific shape at another spot on the O-Line. However, if I had to make a prediction right now, I would say that Stepaniak opens the season as a starter. I think his combination of experience and skills make him the best option to support the overall direction of the offense, but he'll have to stay healthy and play to expectations to keep his spot.