Football: Mission Viejo’s Cole Smith grew up to be a center

When kids are growing up, they dream of being a quarterback, a running back, an All-Pro defensive back. Who grows up to be a center?

That would be Mission Viejo’s 6-foot-3, 265-pound Cole Smith, the son of six-time Pro Bowl center Doug Smith.

“He’s been teaching me since I was a toddler,” Cole Smith said.

Smith, who’s committed to USC, turned out pretty well. He has helped Mission Viejo reach Saturday’s 2 p.m. West Valley Division final against Vista Murrieta at Angel Stadium.

Doug Smith has been a great teacher, breaking down film with his son and teaching him blocking techniques.

The center position is critical on an offensive line, helping the quarterback with blocking schemes and helping other linemen pick up blitzes.

And so far, Cole Smith has been one of the best in the Southland.

Twitter:@LATSondheimer