Countdown to IUFB Kickoff: 72 Days (Simon Stepaniak)

Written by David Sugarman (@David_Sugarman2)

The Hoosier Huddle Countdown rolls along now just 72 days away from opening night against Ohio State. Today we take a look at a new starting face along the offensive line, Simon Stepaniak.

#72

Simon Stepaniak (Redhsirt Sophomore)

Height: 6’4" 

Weight: 305 pounds

Hometown: Hamilton, Ohio

Position: Offensive line

We’ve touched on several offensive lineman so far in the countdown and an important new regular starter in 2017 will likely be Simon Stepaniak. The Ross High School graduate appeared in 12 games in 2016, starting two at right guard. In our original two-deep we project Stepaniak will start at center with Wes Rodgers gone to graduation.  

Stepaniak will most likely be snapping the ball to Richard Lagow and outside of a trick play here and there, and Richard Lagow alone. With Zander Diamont leaving the program at the end of last season, Indiana’s offense may look a bit less dynamic, but this may also ease the transition on the new center.

Originally the number 36 rated prospect in Ohio by 247Sports and ranked the 61st offensive guard in the nation by Scout, Stepaniak came to IU after being named first team All-Southwest Ohio Conference. He redshirted his first season on campus and earned Scout Team Player of the Week twice (FIU and Michigan State).If Stepaniak can adjust to the full-time center position in Mike DeBord’s new offense the Hoosiers offensive line, which will be sporting several fresh faces, should see success come August.

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