For me, the offensive line is the most important position group in football, just as I believe quarterback is the most important individual position. Frankly, to consistently compete for and win championships, we cannot accept mediocre play in either case, which is why getting the o line coaching hire right is so crucial. And why getting great line play is so important going forward.
Alabama is playing for another title, but they stumbled a bit at times in getting there. Why? Inconsistent offensive line play by Bama standards. Bryce Young, along with their backs and receivers, did a lot to cover up their line's inconsistencies throughout the season. But when it mattered most, in the SEC Championship, the play was better. Their opponent, Georgia, has a massive if underrated line. How else do you stand up for a QB with his own limitations and help get your team to a National Championship game?!
We are losing our best lineman but the cupboard is not bare. Three starters back, including 2 freshman All-Americans, are the link to a very good line next year. There is experience and talent to compete with youngsters coming in. The key will be finding the right five and building them into a cohesive unit that will allow our playmakers to thrive. Championships start in the trenches. It's time to see that happen for us.
Alabama is playing for another title, but they stumbled a bit at times in getting there. Why? Inconsistent offensive line play by Bama standards. Bryce Young, along with their backs and receivers, did a lot to cover up their line's inconsistencies throughout the season. But when it mattered most, in the SEC Championship, the play was better. Their opponent, Georgia, has a massive if underrated line. How else do you stand up for a QB with his own limitations and help get your team to a National Championship game?!
We are losing our best lineman but the cupboard is not bare. Three starters back, including 2 freshman All-Americans, are the link to a very good line next year. There is experience and talent to compete with youngsters coming in. The key will be finding the right five and building them into a cohesive unit that will allow our playmakers to thrive. Championships start in the trenches. It's time to see that happen for us.
