Taylor Decker: From Buckeye to Lion - A Comprehensive Look at His College Career
Taylor Decker (born August 23, 1993) is an American professional football offensive tackle currently playing for the Detroit Lions of the National Football League (NFL). Before his NFL career, Decker made a name for himself playing college football for the Ohio State Buckeyes, where his performance earned him consensus All-American honors. This article delves into Decker's college career, highlighting his achievements, contributions to the team, and the accolades he received.
Early Years and High School
Decker's football journey began at Butler High School in Vandalia, Ohio, where he was a three-year starter as a left tackle. His performance in high school paved the way for his recruitment to Ohio State University.
Arrival at Ohio State and Early Playing Time (2012)
Decker entered Ohio State as a true freshman in 2012 and immediately saw playing time, appearing in all 12 games. While his contributions primarily came on special teams, he also gained valuable experience by playing 22 snaps on offense. This initial exposure helped prepare him for a more significant role in the seasons to come.
Becoming a Full-Time Starter (2013)
Although primarily used on special teams as a freshman in 2012, Decker earned snaps from the line of scrimmage in four games and became a full-time starter in his second season with the Buckeyes.
As a sophomore, Decker played 941 offensive snaps and was part of an offensive line that helped Ohio State rank fifth overall in rushing (308.6 yards per game) and break school records for points scored (637), touchdowns (87) and touchdown passes (38).
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Record-Breaking Offenses and All-Big Ten Honors (2014)
In 2014, Decker earned Second-Team All-Big Ten Conference honors from coaches and media voters. Ohio State once again shattered school records in touchdowns (90), passing yards (3,707) and passing touchdowns (42).
Fiesta Bowl and Final Season (2015)
In 2015, Decker played and started 13 games for Ohio State, helping the Buckeyes to a 12-1 overall record that included a 44-28 win over Notre Dame in the Fiesta Bowl.
A Linchpin of the Offensive Line
Over a four-season career at Ohio State, Decker started 42 of 54 games played. In his sophomore and junior seasons, Decker was part of an offensive line that helped Ohio State break a number of school offensive records, including points scored and passing touchdowns.
NFL Draft and Transition to the Pros
Decker entered the 2016 NFL Draft with several Ohio State teammates, at least five of them heavily projected by NFL Media analysts to go in the first round. Daniel Jeremiah and Bucky Brooks each penciled in defensive end Joey Bosa as the fourth overall pick. Decker's other top-rated teammates include running back Ezekiel Elliott, cornerback Eli Apple and linebacker Darron Lee. Charles Davis also added safety Vonn Bell as a late first-rounder from the Buckeyes.
Strengths and Attributes
Decker's height will be an advantage for any team's offensive line, and he's said to have good core strength.
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