Five defensive tackles who could shape the 2023 playoff race

Which "planets" on potential playoff teams have the gravity to draw in the 2023 National Championship?

One of the big 2023 themes for America’s War Game has been my acceptance of the import of dominant defensive tackles in pursuit of championships, as well as the differentiating quality they have for this game.

As Bill Parcells explained it, there are only so many people on the planet who are both athletic and 300 pounds or heavier.

I believe a dominant wide receiver can have a greater impact on the game, but they are harder to come by than a dominant defensive tackle. Consequently fielding guys up front who can change how an offense gameplans is a unique advantage which often defines championship teams in college football. Elite defensive tackle recruiting is THE primary gatekeeping that keeps smaller programs away from National Championships.

Sometimes it can keep big programs from championships too. I’ve identified five defensive tackles who really need to pan out and have big seasons in 2023 in order to help the blue blood programs they play for maximize their potential for this season.