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After originally committing to play for the Virginia Cavaliers, Columbus East center Harry Crider re-opened his options and committed to Indiana on August 15, 2016 after a strong push from now-Michigan OL coach Greg Frey.
HOW HE STACKS UP
According to 247Sports, Crider is considered to be the 19th best player in the state of Indiana, and the 22nd best center in the country.
247Sports recruiting insider Steve Wiltfong calls him “a true center” that already has a feel for the position.
Signed. Sealed. Delivered. #iufb officially welcomes offensive lineman Harry Crider (@HarryCrider) to the family! #Breakthrough pic.twitter.com/LCZgFQT98k
— Indiana Football (@HoosierFootball) February 1, 2017
WHAT IT MEANS FOR INDIANA
With Wes Rogers graduating, the middle of the offensive line is as wide open as a position can be heading into the spring. Crider is going to have the opportunity to step in and contribute right away if he can win the job in the summer.
As Wiltfong pointed out above, you won’t have to worry about converting Crider to the position, as you often have to do with talented high school lineman who were more likely to have been playing tackle or guard in high school. He’s very familiar with the position and that could prove crucial in the battle for early playing time.