Troy needed just one more yard to take a lead before halftime, and the team leaned on Jake Andrews – literally.
The Trojans had the ball on third and goal, and just three seconds remained in the second quarter as they were tied with Appalachian State at 14 in a clash between Sun Belt teams.
The Trojans called a quarterback sneak, believing they could win up front with Andrews as their center. They were right.
At the snap, he bulldozed forward and kept pushing until the ball crossed the goal line, giving Troy the lead.
Andrews provided crucial contributions for his team in college. He has the potential to do the same in the NFL.
What Team Drafted Jake Andrews?
Andrews was drafted by the New England Patriots in the fourth round with the 107th overall pick.
Jake Andrews Stats and Highlights
Andrews played at left guard, center and right guard during his collegiate career. Through nearly 2,800 snaps since he was a freshman, he allowed just six sacks and 42 quarterback pressures with only 13 penalties, according to Pro Football Focus. That’s a pass blocking efficiency of 98.5.
Andrews was 25th in PFF’s overall offensive grades among all centers in the country in 2022. He was also 14th in run blocking but 119th in pass blocking.
Andrews was a first-team All-Sun Belt selection in 2022 as a junior.
Jake Andrews Draft Profile
Andrews’ athleticism score at the NFL Combine was eighth among centers, and that’s one of the first things that stands out when he plays.
At 6-foot-3, 305 pounds, Andrews isn’t going to move many NFL players off the line of scrimmage with brute strength, though he does love to shove opponents to the ground. However, he possesses exceptional lateral quickness and is fast with his hands when he’s blocking.
Andrews thrived with defensive front recognition, especially when opponents tried stunts. He’s also constantly active, as he keeps his feet moving even at the point of attack and is always on the lookout for what his opponent is doing.
He also knows how to use leverage against defensive linemen to his benefit. He keeps his pad level low, so he’s anchored at the point of attack and isn’t shoved back frequently.
Andrews’ instincts and technique will certainly help him transition to the NFL.
