How good are the Ohio State football units compared to other national teams? Here we dig a little deeper and uncover info on the offensive line (OL) unit.
The Top 5 OLs are considered to be, in reverse alphabetical order just for fun: Wisconsin, Washington, Stanford, Georgia and Alabama.
That's right Ohio State is not considered to be in the Top 5 (nor the Top 12). The loss of Rimington award winner C Billy Price and LT "Happy" Jamarco Jones may have something to do with that. But let's see who is the competition.
All five starters from Wisconsin's dominating 2017 OL return this year. That includes projected All American RT David Edwards (AA1, Top 50) who protects the blind side of left-handed QB Alex Hornibrook. They also have RG Beau Benzschawel (AA2) and LT Michael Deiter (AA3). It has been noted that Wisconsin, like many teams including Ohio State, is testing out a reshuffling of their OL personnel. However that sorts out, it's clear that the OL will continue to pound openings for RB sensation Jonathan Taylor (AA1).
Washington's OL features LT Trey Adams (AA2) who is back from injury. When Adams went out injured last year the QB sacks of Jake Browning jumped to 9 over the last 4 games.
Much of Stanford RB Bryce Love's (AA1,Top 5) Heisman-like rushing numbers are attributed to their powerful OL. The standout is projected All American OG Nate Herbig (AA1).
The resurgence of Georgia in the SEC is attributed to an improved OL in protecting the QB Jake From (Top 50) and punching holes for RB D'Andre Swift (Top 50, AA2). Last year Georgia rushers averaged nearly 6 yards a carry. The standout is OT Andrew Thomas (AA3) who may be switched from right to left.
Lastly, Alabama continues with a dominating OL although they are reshuffling and reinserting personnel this year. ‘Bama's exceptional players include two projected All Americans: LT Jonah Williams (Top 50, AA1) and C Ross Pierschbacher (AA1).
Based on college football previews, Wisconsin of the Big Ten and Alabama of the SEC are considered to be a cut above the rest.
How do you see Ohio State's reshuffled line-up stacking up? Will the Buckeyes become good enough to dominate in the national playoffs?
