This morning I decided to take another look at the tape of Ronnie Stanley. I watched him against USC and Clemson. There are some things that jump out when I watch Stanley play. Here are my notes:
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The Good:
- Impeccable footwork
- The ability to mirror defender
- Quick and versatile run blocker, opened some big rushing lanes
- Gets on edge rusher quick, uses their momentum to carry him out of the play.
There was a play against Clemson where Shaq Lawson won off the edge. Stanley recovered with speedy footwork and balance. He could not stop Lawson but he steered him out of the play. This to me was huge.
One play against USC, Stanley opened a rushing lane that the Hulk would have fit through. On this play the guard pulled out and blew up the edge player. Stanley cut inside and knocked the defensive tackle well out of the play. It was a thing of beauty.
The Bad
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- Bit of a leaner, loses some leverage
- Inconsistent pad level
- Does not explode off the line of scrimmage
- Quicker than strong
There were several plays where, Stanley would have given Lawson a sack if the Notre Dame QB was not fast. Lawson beat him off the edge. While Stanley mostly recovered, he really needs to use his beautiful kick-slide with more urgency off the snap.
Stanley is a bit grabby. He was called for holding against USC. The defender over powered him and Stanley held for dear life. This happens but the important note is that the defender got inside Stanley, pulling on his shoulder pads was all he could do.
Stanley also gave up a sack against USC, but it was not his fault. It was a coverage sack. The quarterback had at least seconds to throw the ball, he tucked it and tried to roll out.
Overall Impression:
I’m still concerned about his build. Stanley needs to bulk up without losing his dancing bear qualities. He is a solid pass protector. His footwork allows him to stay in front and work.
Stanley lacks brute strength but he is not weak. He’s not a Ogden like player. Stanley is quick but he is not a bulldozer.
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If he can improve his power, his sense of urgency and lean less, he’ll have a decent career. There are some things to work on, but Stanley surely has the athletic ability.