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16 college football greats who’d lead their former team to the 2017 title

By Zach Bigalke

(Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
(Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /
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ORCHARD PARK, NY – DECEMBER 06: Eric Wood #70 of the Buffalo Bills gets set to snap the ball as Vince Wilfork #75 of the Houston Texans makes a defensive call during the first half at Ralph Wilson Stadium on December 6, 2015 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images)
ORCHARD PARK, NY – DECEMBER 06: Eric Wood #70 of the Buffalo Bills gets set to snap the ball as Vince Wilfork #75 of the Houston Texans makes a defensive call during the first half at Ralph Wilson Stadium on December 6, 2015 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images) /

With Heisman winner Lamar Jackson back for his junior season, Louisville has a chance to contend in the ACC. But Jackson will need to receive much better protection than he got from his offensive line last year. The Cardinals gave up the third-most sacks in all FBS in 2016. Jackson suffered 46 of those 47 sacks. By the end of the year, the physical punishment took its toll as Louisville faded down the stretch.

An upgrade on the offensive line would be just what Louisville needs to battle for the College Football Playoff. Instead, the Cardinals will try to win an ACC title with untested walk-ons or a freshman anchoring the middle of the offensive line.

Related Story: Louisville Football: What does Lamar Jackson still have to prove?

So, if Louisville could pick one Cardinal great from the past to bolster its title chances, Eric Wood would have the greatest impact. A four-year starter at center, Wood would be an immediate upgrade at the position and provide stability all down the line. Since graduation, Wood has been a mainstay for the Buffalo Bills at center and right guard, demonstrating a talent and versatility that would boost Louisville’s title chances.

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