With the addition of Louisiana Tech transfer Zarian McGill, Colorado’s offensive line is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing position groups heading into next season. But one of the bigger questions for this upcoming season—is if McGill will take the center job from Cash Cleveland.
McGill arrives in Boulder with a wealth of experience. The 6-foot-2, 310-pound lineman played in all 12 games last season at Louisiana Tech (after transferring from Jones College and Louisiana-Monroe), earning Second-Team All-Sun Belt honors in 2023 with the Warhawks. His ability to protect the quarterback is a major asset—he only allowed two sacks in two seasons in 685 pass-blocking snaps.
McGill’s college journey has been defined by steady improvement, versatility, and leadership. He’s proven himself against solid competition and has the kind of physicality that could immediately translate to the Big 12. With Coach Prime bringing him in as a transfer, you have to think he’ll get every opportunity to compete for a starting role.
Cleveland, on the other hand, has quickly become one of the best stories on the Colorado roster. A former walk-on who got his big break against Texas Tech, the freshman has impressed ever since stepping onto the field. Despite being overlooked in recruiting due to his size (6-foot-1, 295 pounds), Cleveland has shown that technique and leverage can be just as valuable as raw power.
His performance against Texas Tech turned heads—not just from Buffs fans but even from former Eagles center Jason Kelce, who shouted him out on social media. Cleveland’s scrappy, high-IQ playstyle makes him a natural fit for the center position, and his ability to pick up the offense quickly has put him in good standing with the coaching staff.
This is where things get interesting. McGill clearly has the experience and proven ability at the college level, but Cleveland has something that can’t be measured—momentum. Coach Prime loves an underdog story, and Cleveland has already shown he can step up when called upon.
Right now, Cleveland has the upper hand based on what he’s already proven. But with McGill coming in hungry and ready to compete, this will be a battle worth watching all offseason.
Either way, the Buffs are in a much better spot at center than they were a year ago.