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Sunday, June 17, 2012

2012 Season Countdown: #74 Erik Gunderson

Erik Gunderson
Name: Erik Gunderson
Height: 6'8"
Weight: 312 lbs.
High school: Milan (MI) Milan
Position: Offensive tackle
Class: Redshirt junior
Jersey number: #69
Last year: I ranked Gunderson #67 and said he would be a backup offensive tackle.  He played in four games as a backup lineman.

Gunderson came to Michigan as a 6'8", 338-pounder and slimmed down significantly under Rich Rodriguez, since Rodriguez was into cardio and athleticism for his linemen.  Under Brady Hoke, Gunderson is slowly putting on weight once again and is up over 300 lbs., fourteen pounds heavier than last year.  He played in several games last season, but did not see action in crucial situations.

Offensive tackle is once again a thin position now that Mark Huyge graduated and only freshmen are left outside of starters Taylor Lewan and Michael Schofield.  Gunderson could be a key backup if the freshmen struggle to adjust and if there are injuries along the offensive line.  He's a little slow-footed and would most likely work in at right tackle if needed, but he's an adequate run blocker.  No offense to Gunderson, but let's hope that he's not needed this season.

Prediction: Backup right tackle

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