Positional Breakdown - Offensive Line

[BullyPulpit]

After a weekend hiatus, I will continue the positional breakdown threads as we are just 5 short days from the return of USF football! Let's take a look at the offensive line:

OFFENSIVE LINE (18)

Starters: LT - Eric Mayes - SR, LG - Demetris Harris - RS FR, C - Michael Wiggs - SO, RG - Billy Atterbury - JR, RT - Marcus Norman - JR

Second String : Jeremiah Stafford - RS FR, Hal Roberson - SO, Christian Gainer- SO, Jean Marcellus - RS FR

In the Mix: Marlon Gonzalez - JR, Brad Cecil - FR,

Reserves: Matt Nelson - SO, Troy Fields - SO, Donovan Jennings - FR, Jack Pigozzo - FR, Ethan Watson - FR, Sebastian Sainterling - FR

Transfers: Jarrett Hopple - SO (required to sit out)

Outlook: This is an area where the Bulls lack the experience they have grown accustomed to having over the last 3 seasons, but we are not without talented players. The Bulls have to replace C Cameron Ruff and LG Jeremi Hall, but return 3 players that started in 2017 (Mayes, Harris, and Atterbury). The starting 5 has been set since the Spring. It will be important for them to perform at a higher level as we no longer have the elusiveness of QF in the backfield to make up for any mistakes. Realistically, we have 10 guys in the mix. Unfortunately, converted DT Marlong Gonzalez, who was supposed to add some depth to the line, has been battling injuries and hasn't been able to fully immerse himself in the position just yet. Center is the position of biggest depth concern, with Michael Gallati and Brooks Larkin transferring out after being beaten out by Michael Wiggs. The Bulls have used Demetris Harris as the backup center should Wiggs go down, and have also been giving reps to true freshman Brad Cecil, although I am sure they would rather have his take his redshirt season and gain some more experience before thrusting him into such a vital role on the line. Look for USF to rely on 3 or 4 backups to fill in where needed, but for the starting 5 to get the vast majority of the snaps so long as they stay healthy. 

With only one senior on the depth chart, if this group can come together, USF should be solid on the offensive line for the next 4 years. Coach Strong has brought in a slew of talented freshman who will be pressing for playing time next season, and Jarrett Hopple, a talented transfer from Virginia Tech who couldn't quite crack their 2-deep, will also be available in 2019. 

[Gatorbull325]

I remember a post long time ago one of the writers mentioned that when Marlon Gonzales did play, he was raw, but physically held his own against all of the DTs. He is one of our strongest players as well. I think he contributes big time this year. I also like the other freshman Donovan Jennings and Sainterling. I think our O-Line sees a huge improvement. 

[BullyPulpit]

1 hour ago, Gatorbull325 said:

I remember a post long time ago one of the writers mentioned that when Marlon Gonzales did play, he was raw, but physically held his own against all of the DTs. He is one of our strongest players as well. I think he contributes big time this year. I also like the other freshman Donovan Jennings and Sainterling. I think our O-Line sees a huge improvement. 

Hopefully Jennings and Sainterling don't have to play much, if at all, this year and can work on getting in college shape and improving their technique. If the line holds up this season we will be stacked for years to come. One area that CCS has emphasized on the recruiting trail. 

[Gatorbull325]

24 minutes ago, BullyPulpit said:

Hopefully Jennings and Sainterling don't have to play much, if at all, this year and can work on getting in college shape and improving their technique. If the line holds up this season we will be stacked for years to come. One area that CCS has emphasized on the recruiting trail. 

The New redshirt rules allows for a player to be able to play 4 games and still redshirt. I think we benefit the most from this rule. we are so deep, we should always have fresh players on the field now. But Im with you, If we can sit them then great. But Ive noticed that the o-line seems to get banged up the most out of all groups.  

[LunchTimeBully]

O line will determine wins and losses this year 

[E.T.]

I feel better today than I did during the Spring.