With The First Pick
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Sam Hubbard, Ohio State: 2018 NFL Draft Scouting Report

By Jon Dove

Sep 10, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Tulsa Golden Hurricane running back D'Angelo Brewer (4) makes a catch as he is tackle by Ohio State Buckeyes defensive end Sam Hubbard (6) in the second half against at Ohio Stadium. Ohio State won 48-3. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 10, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Tulsa Golden Hurricane running back D'Angelo Brewer (4) makes a catch as he is tackle by Ohio State Buckeyes defensive end Sam Hubbard (6) in the second half against at Ohio Stadium. Ohio State won 48-3. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports /
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Ohio State’s Sam Hubbard is a well-rounded defensive player who should be an early pick in the 2018 NFL Draft.

Sam Hubbard makes an impact on the game by both stuffing the run and getting after the quarterback. He uses a combination of speed, power and an elite motor. Hubbard is someone who is always in pursuit of the ball.

His hand usage is a key to his success. Hubbard routinely rolls his hips and delivers a strong initial jolt. This allows him to gain inside hands, create space and control the action.

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He plays with excellent balance and overall leverage. This leverage and hand use helps him stack and shed against the run. He is committed to setting the edge while also working down the line when needed.

Hubbard is a strong run defender who holds at the point of attack, quickly disengages and makes plays away from his frame. He is also someone who will be seen chasing the ball carrier downfield.

As a pass rusher, Hubbard has a solid base of pass rush moves. He doesn’t have elite speed, but can gain the edge thanks to his quick initial burst and snap awareness. His quick first step gives him the advantage he needs to turn the corner.

He also features an effective power move thanks to his leverage, raw strength and hand usage. Hubbard shows the awareness needed to employ correct move at the right time. This also includes using his lateral quickness to shoot the inside gap.

Hubbard might not be an overly flashy player, but he’s someone that gets the job done. This is a two-way player who doesn’t need to come off the field. It’s important not to sleep on his athleticism because he does have more than enough quickness to be an effective pass rusher at the next level.

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