Buccaneers: Two potential pro bowlers on the offensive line

During this last off-season the Buccaneers made two bold calls that are now paying off: moving Ali Marpet to center, and keeping faith in veteran Demar Dotson.

If you had asked me a few months ago what my biggest concern for the Buccaneers was, I’d have likely told you “offensive line”. I was thankfully wrong, and in fact, this unit turned out to be one of the few strengths of the team. The two biggest reasons for that? Center Ali Marpet, and right tackle Demar Dotson. If the season ended today, there’s a good chance that both players would be pro-bowlers.

Marpet’s move from right guard to center was one of the biggest story lines of the Buccaneer off-season, given how strong his play had been during his first two seasons. The Buccaneers had always envisioned Marpet at center long term, and aside from some expected snafus and adjustments snapping the ball, the move has been mostly a success; in week six, Marpet earned Pro Football Focus’ highest pass blocking grade among centers in the NFL.

Quarterback Jameis Winston has gotten inconsistent protection from his left side, including a few crucial instances during the Bills game, but their anchors at center and right tackle have evened things up enough to allow them to have one of the league’s best passing attacks.

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There wasn’t much doubt in my mind that Marpet would be a quality center after some early growing pains, but I did have my doubts about Demar Dotson. Coming into the season, the 32 year old was fresh off two previous seasons filled with injuries and uneven play, and even suffered a groin injury in the pre-season.

However, much like his unlikely rise as an undrafted free agent, Dotson defied expectations and has put together his best season to date as a pro. Between weeks three and seven, no tackle in the NFL has given up fewer pressures in pass protection, and on the season he’s Pro Football Focus’ top pass blocking tackle in the entire league.

Both Dotson and Marpet will face some stiff competition if they’re to make their first Pro Bowl. Though both have impressed, they’re not exactly household names at this point, which plays heavily into who makes it. Dotson has a legitimate path, especially after the injury to future hall-of-famer Jason Peters; five tackles make the cut, with Trent Williams and Tyron Smith being the only significantly bigger names than Dotson in the NFC.

Ali Marpet on the other hand has a bit more difficult path, as he’ll need to usurp one of three centers from last years’ team. Philadelphia’s Jason Kelce, Atlanta’s Alex Mack, and Dallas’ Travis Fredrick have all maintained high levels of play this season and fortuitously play in big markets that give them plenty of spotlight. We’ll see if Marpet can break into the small group of centers, but one thing is for certain: his play has warranted a spot.

Next: Buccaneers vs. Panthers: Five Game Changing Players

What’s been your impression of Ali Marpet at center, Buccaneer fans? Do you think he has a shot at the Pro Bowl? Sound off in the comments below!