Way-Too-Early Depth Chart: Projecting Northwestern's Center Order

Sam Gerak is back for his final year, providing continuity at the pivot position.

This is another iteration of the 2021 Way-Too-Early Depth Chart series. If you would like to find previous depth charts for QB, RB, WR, LT, LG, LB, and DB click on the corresponding links.

Whenever a team brings in a new quarterback, there has to be some continuity along the offensive line, especially at center. 

The center is responsible for making calls at the line of scrimmage and is one of only two players to touch the ball on every offensive snap. Having continuity at this position is important, and could make or break a team.

The Wildcats should be set at the position with Sam Gerak returning for his final year. The redshirt senior has started every game over the past two seasons, 21 games in total. Gerak was also named on the watch list for the 2021 Rimington Award, which is given to college football’s best center.

Gerak himself spoke highly of the offensive line's depth this year at Big Ten Media Days, saying the group is “incredibly deep,” and that there will be competition for those jobs.

Behind Gerak will more than likely be junior Charlie Schmidt. The center from Libertyville, IL has appeared in nine games in his career, and should be ready to step up in the event of a Gerak injury.

Northwestern is replacing a lot of talent on the offensive side of the ball, especially at the skill positions. However, with Gerak returning at the center position, the offensive line should continue to get better.

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