Going up against USC in the Cotton Bowl in 2022, Tulane needed a touchdown to keep the contest close. So the Green Wave turned to their running game.
Early in the third quarter, Tulane guard Prince Pines cleared a path for running back Tyjae Spears to cross the line to gain on fourth down. Then a play later, on first and goal on USC’s 7-yard line, Spears again ran to the left. And again, Pines paved the way.
Pines shoved a defensive lineman out of the picture in order for Spears to reach the end zone.
That cut USC’s lead to seven points in what would become a victory for the Green Wave in a New Year’s Six bowl.
During that game, and throughout Tulane’s last couple successful seasons, Pines played a major role on the Green Wave’s offense. Now the former All-AAC offensive lineman could have a chance to show what he can do as a pro.
“Learning different techniques,” Pines said at the NFL Combine, “learning different things, and just experience over time definitely helped me improve.”
Prince Pines Draft Projection
I project Pines will be drafted in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Teams like the Seattle Seahawks or the Pittsburgh Steelers, which need help with the interior of their offensive lines, would make sense.
Pines was invited to the NFL Combine for a reason. He may not be a first-round prospect, but he has the talent and potential to be deemed worthy of a Day 3 pick.
What Was Prince Pines’ 40 Time?
Pines ran the 40-yard dash in 5.34 seconds. That was 42nd among offensive linemen at the NFL Combine.
At 6 feet, 4.5 inches and 322 pounds, he also had a vertical jump of 30 inches, which tied for 24th at his position group.
Prince Pines’ Stats and Highlights
Pines began his collegiate career at Baylor, where he redshirted in 2018 and played in all 14 games in 2019 when the Bears played in the Sugar Bowl and Big 12 Championship.
Then Pines went to Sam Houston, where he started in 10 games for the Bearkats when they went undefeated and won an FCS Championship during the 2020-21 spring season. In 2021, he was a HERO Sports Sophomore All-American.
In 2022, Pines’ first year at Tulane, he garnered All-AAC first-team honors. That season, he gave up just six pressures – which was in the top 25 among all FBS linemen who played at least 550 snaps – as well as one quarterback hit and no sacks.
The following year, he played just eight games. He allowed 13 pressures, seven hurries, four QB hits, and two sacks.
Pines said his technique in pass protection has particularly improved the past few years thanks to some “great O-line coaches” at Tulane and Sam Houston.
“When I transferred, I had to learn new systems and new programs and get to know different people and different schemes,” Pines said, “so just being able to do that and excel at each school definitely plays a role.”
Prince Pines’ NFL Comparison And Draft Profile
My NFL comparison for Pines is Trey Smith of the Chiefs. After Smith was drafted in the sixth round out of Tennessee, he’s been a solid starter for Kansas City.
I could see Pines eventually making a starting lineup for an NFL team. At his size, he’s going to be difficult to move, even for pro defensive linemen.
While Pines’ hand placement is inconsistent, he’s active with both his feet and his hands. He battles constantly, which makes it difficult for opponents to shed blocks.
Despite his 40 time, he showed some quickness, especially when pulling. And in space, he understands leverage and knows exactly where to be in order to be a roadblock for linebackers trying to make a tackle.
Pines is capable of quickly recognizing stunts and blitzes. He has also showcased good strength, especially when he’s anchored in on passing plays.
“I’m very studious. I pay attention. I’m passionate. I’m hard working,” Pines said. “I would bring a great addition to a team.”
