Maurkice and Michael Pouncey are identical twins. But ever since the two arrived in Gainesville as true freshmen offensive linemen in 2007, Michael has sort of been viewed as the other Pouncey.
Maurkice was a higher-rated prospect coming out of Lakeland High, and he moved right in as a starter at offensive guard as a true freshman, while Michael was a backup who actually saw some playing time at defensive tackle as a true freshman.
Now, the draft thing.
Maurkice was so highly rated by the NFL that he made the decision to enter the draft, while Michael felt it was best to return of his senior season, based on information he got back from the NFL.
So now, officially for the first time, Maurkice has moved ahead of Michael after being drafted in the first round by the Pittsburgh Steelers with the 18th overall selection.
Even as a prospect for the 2011 draft, Michael gets mixed reviews when compared to his twin. “He’s not quite as athletic as his twin brother,” according to ESPN.com’s Todd McShay, “but he shows good strength at the point of attack and plays with a similar mean streak.
But if you listen to UF offensive coordinator and offensive line coach Steve Addazio (which I did on an SEC coaches’ teleconference Thursday), Michael, who moved to center in the spring, has a chance to not only catch up to his identical twin, but maybe even pass him with a strong senior season.
“I think Mike can be even better (than Maurkice),” Addazio said. “With another year at that position, he can continue his development. In my opinion, (Mike) is the best offensive lineman in America. He’s tough, he’s physical, he’s smart, he’s a leader. He’s played guard, center, he even played tackle this spring.
“He has the opportunity to play all three positions. His versatility is incredible.”
A year from now, maybe Michael will be just like his twin — a first-round NFL draft pick.
God Bless the Pouncey twins and family. Michael,…keep focus, keep clean. You are the man we all look up to now. You are like the most senior leader of the team.
Looking forward to a great year and wishing for you a fabulous future.
God Bless.
“A year from now, maybe Michael will be just like his twin — a first-round NFL draft pick.” …and perhaps a 1st round pick by the Pittsburgh Steelers!
UF is very blessed to have recruited these two remarkable talents. I wish them both the best in their respective endeavors. Mike is going to be great for the Gators this season and I believe his leadership will be what catapults him in the 2011 draft.
Another Gator family success story. I think made a wise decision to come back for his senior year. Playing center will enhance his value and developing his already great skills will make him a first round pick. A great decision for both himself and the Gators. Go Gators from a journalism grad from the Steve Spurrier playing era.
Love the Pouncy twins. Always enjoyed their interviews. Well spoken with a smile on their face. Wishing them and their family the best and would love to see Mike be a first round draft choice by the Steelers in order to join his twin brother.
WOULD THAT NOT BE GREAT, GATOR JOE
I can’t wait to see Carl Johnson and Mike Pouncey help hold down the line. It must be tough for the other players being on a team where there are twins and thier talents were somtimes overshadowed. Thanks
As a Steeler fan for39 years, I would be over the moon if the Steelers has ANOTHER Pouncey to bless our team……Thank you Florida for making great football players.