Minnesota Golden Gophers sophomore offensive lineman Zac Epping has impressed coaches and likely will see more time at the center position. Epping, who coach Jerry Kill calls the team's "best offensive lineman," started the season at right guard, but moved to center last week following an injury to Zach Mottla.
Epping had never played center until last season, when the Gopher coaches requested that he learn multiple positions along the line. Although right guard is his natural position, Epping could see more time at center this week against Syracuse as Mottla is questionable for Saturday's game. Offensive line coach Matt Limegrover was pleased with the line's performance last week with Epping at C and Caleb Bak at RG and has said that Epping will remain at C at least until Mottla is 100 percent.
If the line continues to play well this week, it is possible that the current unit will remain as starters even upon Mottla's return. The Gophers host the Syracuse Orange at 7:00 p.m. CT on Saturday.
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