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Diamond Hunter: Spider Sense

Matt McCracken (79), offensive lineman from the University of Richmond, casts an intimidating shadow. At 6-3, 300, he's one of the biggest Spiders you'll ever meet.

By Jeff Glatzer

Updated: September 22, 2009

Versatile fifth year senior and four year starting offensive lineman Matt McCracken is making a huge difference for the University of Richmond Spiders. The Spiders play in the CAA (Colonial Athletic Association) and McCracken is an athlete that has improved every season in his sound technique and his strength.

His biggest asset however, is his mind. He approaches the game using his natural instincts and intelligence to identify different defensive fronts and protections so he can communicate the right adjustments effectively to his line mates in the trenches.

He knows all of the offensive assignments including those of the running backs and tight ends. He has created a unique chemistry with his line mates where they know each others' moves and tendencies.

McCracken is a big fan of pancake blocks. He has such devastating lower body strength and power combined with his fierce punch on the defender, that he is able to engage and run over his opponent to win the battle.

He is very effective in pulling out in front of the backs and getting around the edge and down field with his foot quickness and athleticism to take on opposing defenders and play through the whistle.

This Spider poisons his prey with a nasty disposition and was originally utilized as a center and still practices the snaps as such. After starting out at tackle, his biggest contribution to the line has been at guard where he is currently playing this season.

Numbers to Know:

He is currently ranked as the 20^th best player at his position and 390^th overall. McCracken has made 37-consecutive starts, including all 16 last year at LG. Richmond's ground game averaged 187.0 yards/rushing per contest (24th in the NCAA).

Last season the line allowed just 11 sacks in the final 11 games, after yielding 15 in the first five. He started all 14 games in 2007 and became the anchor to the offensive line following the season-ending injury to Tim Silver in the season-opener at Vanderbilt.

Measurables:

Height: 6' 3"

Weight: 300

40 Time: 5.41

Accolades:

McCracken was twice voted a First Team Sports Network Preseason All-America. He was on the First Team Phil Steele Preseason All-America. He was also voted to the First Team Consensus Draft Scout Preseason All-America and First Team Preseason All-Conference pick by Phil Steele. He has been selected as a senior captain by his teammates.

The Buzz:

Guard/Center Matt McCracken:

"It gives you a little more sense of pride when you get to pull around and lead block on a play because it kind of gives you a little bit of the running back glory."

Assistant Coach Bill Polin:

"Another one of his strengths is his actual physical strength from his waist down. He's one of the strongest individuals I've ever seen…with his butt, with his legs, and that's apparent on film the way he's able to bend his knees and get underneath people, and power guys back off the football."

"We want to be the best at the end of everything that we do. Be your best at the finish of the play, be the best at the finish of the drive, be the best at the finish of the game, be the best at the finish of the season."

Glatzer's Loop:

McCracken has the leg drive needed to drive back defenders. He uses his great leverage and lower body thrust to get under the defender's pad level. He's a fighter and would be better utilized at the next level as a power lineman.

His instincts and football intelligence are going to be his ticket to be successful as a lineman. He has great potential to be a road grading offensive player.

Draft Outlook

McCracken can earn his way on to a camp roster as a guard if his strength is improved and quickness and foot speed increase. He is excellent in run support and works great in space. He has great foot leverage and understands and learns schemes in a short amount of time.

He has a great first punch, is tough, nasty, athletic, and can be a mauler. The keys are his legs and footwork. He runs well in space and can diagnose plays quickly, he is cerebral, and is an excellent leader.

McCracken is currently projected as a low round pick, however if he continues his progress this season and stays healthy, he can move up the boards as rapidly as he picks up an offense.