While quarterback and running back get all the attention, it’s nearly impossible to have success there without a very good center. Syracuse currently has three centers on its roster, but the Orange has offered another: Andrew Marshall in the Class of ’14.
Macky MacPherson, a local kid from Christian Brothers Academy, started all 13 games last season for the Orange blocking for Jerome Smith and co. and snapping to Ryan Nassib. He’s a senior now, and will have the same duties for Syracuse‚Äôs first season in the ACC. That leaves sophomore Seamus Shanley and redshirt freshman Jason Emerich as the future there.
In ’14 the Orange will have an opening at center, and Marshall could be an option. He hails from Cumming, Ga., where he attends West Forsyth High School. The 6‚Äô4‚Äù, 260-pounder is a three-star recruit according to ESPN. Right now, Syracuse, Duke and Wake Forest have all offered him from the ACC.¬†East Carolina, Georgia State, Middle Tennessee, Navy, South Alabama, and Western Kentucky have also offered up scholarships.
Bigger SEC schools like Auburn, Georgia, and South Carolina also have interest. He has said he’d be interested in staying close to home and maybe in-state at UGA or George Tech, but he’s also open to leaving his friendly confines. Now that SU is in the ACC, the Orange will play road games within driving distance of his friends and family.
The Class of ’14 is already shaping up nicely for SU. Quarterback A.J. Long has verbally committed, while signal-caller Sean White from Southern Florida is taking a look. J.R. Zazzara from CBA is also headed to Syracuse for lacrosse, but is considering football as well.
Considering how the backfield will likely be a strength for SU for a long time, having a dependable center is crucial for the Orange. Marshall could be that guy.
Posted: Austin Pollack
