NFL Draft Network

Stanford ran the football consistently well all season (averaging 224 yards per game and 5.4 yards per carry and 36 touchdowns) and their offensive line was outstanding. NFL teams are always looking for smart, tough and versatile offensive linemen. I interviewed the Cardinal offensive line coach (Tim Drevno) about their leader, right tackle, Chris Marinelli.

Denis Krusos: How did Chris fit into Stanford’s power rushing attack?

Coach Drevno: That is what he is, a physical offensive lineman who likes contact. Greg Roman (Stanford’s running game coordinator) helped install a pro-style running attack. Chris was a natural for this scheme.

Denis Krusos: What type of person is Chris outside of football?

Coach Drevno: He is a responsible, compassionate and intelligent young man. He comes from a terrific family and you can just depend on him. Chris has all of the character traits you want in a player and person.

Denis Krusos: What is his greatest strength?

Coach Drevno: He is like a coach on the field. Chris has a very high football IQ. One of the reasons he also pass blocks well is he figures out quickly the rhythm of a pass rusher. Chris picks up on the tendencies of his opponent. He has a future in coaching, if he wants to.

Denis Krusos: Is there a type of coaching style (slap on the back or a kick in the pants) that he responds to best?

Coach Drevno: He responds to hard coaching because he is demanding of himself. He asks a lot of questions and it is not because he is trying to challenge you. He is very interested in football and wants to learn more to help the team.

Denis Krusos: Is there a certain defensive lineman (a speed rusher or a power player) that presents more of a challenge to him?

Coach Drevno: I think speed off the edge is the bigger challenge. He can turn his feet over well, but a quality speed rusher can be difficult.

Denis Krusos: What type of a leader is he?

Coach Drevno: He knows everyone’s assignment on offense. He can direct the fullback what to do on a play. Chris is a terrific teammate who wants to win. His teammates really respect him as a player and person.

Denis Krusos: He has played every offensive line position at Stanford except center. What do you think is his best position at the next level?

Coach Drevno: He can contribute at both guard spots and right tackle in the NFL. His versatility will be a plus, but I think his best position will be guard.

Denis Krusos: What does he need to work on to succeed in the NFL?

Coach Drevno: Chris has to improve his flexibility and overall strength. He has had some shoulder injuries and needs to work more on upper body strength. He needs a good off-season of training. He has the work ethic and toughness to play professionally.

Denis Krusos: Tell me more about his durability and toughness.

Coach Drevno: What stands out in my mind was how he handled a high ankle sprain against Cal. The injury he suffered usually takes two weeks to heal. Chris was ready to practice the Wednesday after the injury. He played well against Notre Dame the very next game. He is mentally tough and does not want to come out.

Denis Krusos: Chris is an intelligent young man with a Stanford education. He has plenty of options other than playing pro football. How much does he want to play in the NFL?

Coach Drevno: I would say that he has a burning desire to play in the NFL. I think he would be an excellent addition to a team’s offensive line.