Player Spotlight: Michigan OL Taylor Lewan

Story posted October 11, 2013 in CommRadio, Sports by Jeff Jezewski

The Penn State Nittany Lions (3-2) head into week six with a home whiteout game against No. 18 Michigan (5-0). A main reason to Michigan’s success is the large and talented left tackle senior Taylor Lewan.

The 6 foot 8, 308 pound left tackle rom Cave Creek, Arizona is lauded as one of the best tackles in the country by ESPN and multiple other media outlets. The ESPN preseason All-American will be making his 33rd consecutive start at left tackle for the Michigan Wolverines.

Lewan shocked many fans and media outlets by announcing his return to the Wolverines in January, passing up the possibility of being a first round pick. ESPN insider and draft analyst Mel Kiper had Lewan as his No. 3 offensive tackle before Lewan decided to return for his senior season.

The standout tackle’s performance last year earned him spots on the Outland Trophy, Maxwell Award, Rotary Lombardi Award and Walter Camp Player of the Year Award watch lists. Lewan was one of only two linemen to be named to the player of the year award watch list alongside Texas A&M tackle Jake Matthews.

Michigan has allowed just seven sacks in five games this season. A large part of that can be attributed to the big left tackle’s ability to deter opposing defenders. Lewan is one of the best in the country at keeping his quarterback, Devin Gardner, from being hit. The senior o-lineman only allowed 2 sacks last year and held South Carolina All-American defensive end Jadeveon Clowney without a sack in the 2013 Outback Bowl.

Lewan’s performance and awards recognition isn’t the only impressive thing about the offensive tackle. During the preseason at Big Ten media day in Chicago, Lewan took the time to discuss his incredible diet, which includes twelve eggs and six cans of tuna a day along with three meals.

“During the last 30 days, I gained six pounds of muscle and lost four pounds of fat,” said Lewan.

“I take in over 1500 calories in just eggs and olive oil a day.”

Michigan’s success hinges on Lewan’s ability to protect Devin Gardner. Lewan will look to continue his success against Penn State’s defense this weekend in Beaver Stadium. The Cave Creek, Arizona native is expected by many analysts to have his name called on Thursday May 8th in Radio City Music Hall as a first round pick in the 2014 NFL Draft.

Jeff Jezewski is a sophomore majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact him, email jvj5228@psu.edu.