2014 Summer Position Rankings: Virginia Tech’s Top 5 Offensive Linemen
By Tim Thomas
Oct 5, 2013; Blacksburg, VA, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies quarterback Logan Thomas (3) takes the snap in the first quarter at Lane Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
4. OT Laurence Gibson
Laurence Gibson might not be the most well-known player on the offensive line but he will be a key leader on an offensive line that will have some youth. Gibson will be a redshirt senior this fall and definitely has the potential to be a solid right tackle if he can hold onto the job with Mark Shuman and Parker Osterloh both looking to take it if they can.
One of the biggest things that makes Gibson unique is the fact that he has above-average speed for an offensive tackle. The collegiate game has seen the rise in speed rushers on the edge and teams are looking for more athleticism, speed, and light feet at offensive tackle which Gibson provides quite well.
Gibson also brings a lot of experience after being in on 431 offensive snaps last season while also starting in six games for the Hokies. Gibson will likely end up starting most games this fall as long as he can be consistently productive whether it be against a weaker opponent like Western Michigan or a top defensive line like Ohio State.
The one concern with Laurence Gibson is the fact that he is only 274 pounds as listed by hokiesports.com. Gibson is a very athletic offensive tackle but one thing that has been brought into question in the past is whether he is strong enough for an offensive tackle. Gibson can afford to bulk up some more and has the potential to have a big senior season.