BYU returns just two starters from last season's offensive line and both of them have switched positions.
Texas A&M, the team BYU will face one week from today, has a defensive line that is lauded by The Sporting News as the best in college football.Long-time Cougar offensive line coach Roger French isn't in a state of panic, however. His offensive line may be a bit green, but it's not without potential and talent.
"We're young, we're learning and the competitiveness has been good," said French, who has coached some 35 linemen that have gone on to play pro football. "We have eight or nine guys who will contribute, which means we'll be able to spell the guys who get tired."
Larry Moore, an all-WAC guard last season, has been moved to center. The 6-3, 290-pound senior is expected to provide leadership to the group along with senior James Johnson (6-7, 305), the other returning starter. Johnson, a tackle last season, will start at left guard this year.
Matt Cox, a 6-6, 290-pound junior started two games a year ago and is penciled in at the right guard position this year. John Tait, a 21-year-old returned missionary freshman, and sophomore Eric Bateman are the projected starting tackles. Both are 6-7 and in the 300-pound range without a great deal of body fat.
"Bateman and Tait look like a couple of bookend tackles," observed BYU coach LaVell Edwards.
Senior center Murray Zogg (6-2, 285), juniors Greg Hoagland (6-4, 310) and Charles Jones (6-7, 300) and sophomore Jason Andersen (6-6, 300) will give the Cougs depth.
"The offensive line is making progress," said Edwards following Thursday's scrimmage.
While giving quarterback Steve Sarkisian time to throw is essential, run blocking may be the key to BYU's season offensively. Last year the Cougars were last in the WAC in rushing.