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My 1a and 1b choices would be the Rusty Burns (henceforth known as the offensive coordinator) and the OL. I think the two are linked together as our OL wasn't big or physical enough for straight ahead power football. Unfortnately they also weren't quick enough for wider spacing to allow for some throwing lanes for Willis which he needs because of his size. That being said, we have had much smaller/slower OL in the past that performed on a much better level with the help of some imaginative play calling.

In the midst of all the calling for Bennett's head, I think Rusty Burns needs to be the first head to roll.

Offensive Coordinator without a doubt

unfortunately this isn't the pros, where you can go to free agency to find linemen. We are stuck with who we recruited, and unfortunately, the OL doesn't look like it's going to be better next year.
If that's not bad enough, the DL will probably be worse with Corey Muse, Patrick Handy, and two unproven players. Bennett IMO emphasized speed players more in recruiting and linemen less, but I'm going to be especially worried about our D and O linemen next year, as if we didn't already have enough sore spots on our team

Our O-Line will be returning everyone except Darrin Johnson -- so you will have Chase Smith, Sean Lobo, Ben Poynter, Caleb Peveto (holding machine) and Kenard Burley.

That is pretty much our OL from this year -- how exactly can it not get better? Another spring to get bigger, faster and smarter.

And I for one really like the addition of Chase Smith. He doesn't have D Johnson's size at a mere 6'4, but he's about twice as strong. This year was the first that Johnson benched over 300, whereas Smith is already close to.... get this... 500!!!

mustangfan01 wrote:Our O-Line will be returning everyone except Darrin Johnson -- so you will have Chase Smith, Sean Lobo, Ben Poynter, Caleb Peveto (holding machine) and Kenard Burley.

That is pretty much our OL from this year -- how exactly can it not get better? Another spring to get bigger, faster and smarter.

I meant that there will not be any new impact players on the line next year, I'd like to see Chase play before I call him a plus over Johnson. After all, he was a DT until last year. I sure hope the unit coming back gets stronger and better for next year

Johnson will be a loss to the OL, hands down. That being said, Chase Smith (not going to say he is a plus yet either) is a friggin' monster. The kid is stacked, but just a little shorter.

OK, so we are basically coming back with the same OL, albeit a year older/bigger/stronger. If we were to get rid of Burns, could a new OL coach help these guys develop/improve even more?

Our problems aren't at the tackle slots. It is inside at guard and center. DJ is a good player, but losing him won't be as big of a deal. The real weakness is inside.