Why the offensive line will be the strength of BYU Football in 2018
By Ron Jensen
Many have low expectations for the offensive line in 2018. This position group will be much improved and be the strength of BYU Football this coming season.
Fans, analysts, and writers have made a variety of comments concerning BYU football’s offensive line. One constant among them, especially from those outside the program, is that the Cougars will be playing with relatively undersized athletes at these positions.
This misconception once applied to the Cougar linemen, but things have clearly changed. The front five is definitely inexperienced, unproven, and young. However, small is not a description that fits anymore.
Austin Hoyt (6’8, 315, Sr.), Thomas Shoaf (6’5, 300, Jr.), James Empey (6’4, 297, Fr.), Tristan Hoge (6’5, 305, So.), and Brady Christensen (6’5, 295, Fr.) have ended the use of the adjective. In fact, the projected starters average 302 pounds and 6’5 in height.
This is comparable to any team on the schedule, or in the nation for that matter. Opponents expecting to have an advantage because of sheer size are in for a rude awakening this season. And if you’re concerned with the back-ups, they’re just as big, if not bigger.
The Importance of Coaching
Although stature overshadows a long list of undermentioned qualities of the offensive line, there are several that need to be recognized.
This position group is well-coached. Of course, offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes is a main reason for this. Many consider Grimes as one of the most talented offensive line coaches in the game. His resume is second to none.
The other coach connected to this compliment is offensive line coach Ryan Pugh. Pugh played for Grimes on the Auburn’s national championship team in 2010, but more importantly, this protégé coaches in an identical manner to his mentor.
Creating a blocking scheme is like choreographing a complex dance. It demands incomprehensible synchronization. The other positions have a role in the routine, but the linemen are the stars. The others involved have room for mistakes and improvisation, but one misstep by a lineman destroys the entire performance.
Nowhere else on the field can a coach have a bigger influence on a game result. Not even the offensive coordinator can determine as much as the person who coordinates an offensive line.
Discipline and Execution
Money cannot buy better coaching than what the men upfront for BYU football are receiving right now. This instruction is world-class. Their other qualities are direct results of this coaching.
That includes extraordinary discipline. Don’t expect many penalties this season. Grimes and Pugh will not stand for it, and players won’t be on the field long enough to have repeat offenses.
The other is precision in execution. These players are going to be where they need to be, when they need to be there. Opposing teams cannot count on this group to commit mental errors. They’re just not going to happen.
Regardless of whether a team is Power 5, Group of 5, or Independent, they will quickly realize that expecting to win the battle in the trenches over the Cougars because of a size advantage or superior execution, will be greatly mistaken.
Worried about depth? Don’t be. This unit was built with anticipation of injuries in mind. Multiple athletes have trained in a variety of different positions for that exact purpose.
Jacob Jimenez (6’5 305 Jr.), Chandon Herring (6’7, 302, So.), Kieffer Longson (6’7, 305, So.), Ului Lapuaho (6’7, 330, Sr.), and Keanu Saleapaga (6’6, 295, Fr.) are not just large, but capable as well. They have received the same training as the starters. Expect little drop-off, if any in the case that any have to enter the game.
Whether the running backs, receivers, or even the quarterbacks excel or falter, the offensive line will carry this team in 2018. It will be strong enough to keep the Cougars in games they wouldn’t be otherwise.
This is something Cougar Nation can hang its hat on. Getting a little excited? If you’re not, you should be!