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Michigan football bolstering program success via the offensive line

The Michigan football offensive line is the focal point and identity of the Wolverines’ program right now.

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Michigan football offensive line
Jan 1, 2018; Tampa, FL, USA; Michigan Wolverines offensive lineman Michael Onwenu (50) and Michigan Wolverines offensive lineman Mason Cole (52) blocks South Carolina Gamecocks defensive lineman Dante Sawyer (95) during the second half of the 2018 Outback Bowl at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

It’s official: the University of Michigan has become O-Line U. The past two seasons serve as undeniable proof, as the Michigan football offensive line achieved a feat unprecedented in college football history by winning the Joe Moore Award in consecutive years.

One could even go so far as to dub it the Sherrone Moore Award, acknowledging the immense credit due to Coach Moore for fostering this positional dominance. However, it is now time to bestow upon Michigan the well-deserved title of O-Line U.

Michigan football offensive line leading the charge in program development

The offensive line has undeniably become the heart and soul of the Michigan offense. They have truly earned this recognition, and there are absolutely no indications of their performance slowing down. LSU proudly claims the title of Defensive Back U (DBU), while Notre Dame boasts being Tight End U, and both programs have undoubtedly earned those designations. However, there is something distinct and remarkable about being O-Line U.

The ability to dominate opponents, particularly evident in the humiliating defeat of Ohio State, while running the ball with ease, is a breathtaking sight for Michigan fans. Furthermore, as previously mentioned, the offensive line is exhibiting unwavering strength and determination.

The Wolverines aim to maintain this level of dominance with the return of key veteran starters Trevor Keegan (LG) and Zak Zinter (RG) for their final season, as they strive to achieve legendary status. Carson Barnhart (RT) and Trente Jones (RT) will also make their return, playing pivotal roles in the offensive line’s success. Both Barnhart and Jones are experienced veterans familiar with Moore’s system.

New additions should find key roles this fall

Additionally, the team will be bolstered by the addition of two outstanding offensive linemen from the Pac-12: LaDarius Henderson (LT) (formerly at Arizona State) and Drake Nugent (C) (formerly at Stanford). Henderson and Nugent were esteemed captains at their former programs and standouts, which prompted Harbaugh to seize the opportunity to include them in the position group.

The time is now for Michigan football

Coach Harbaugh clearly recognizes the team’s momentum and the importance of striking while the iron is hot.

With a dominant O-Line in place, the skill position players will have the opportunity to truly shine. Michigan fans should be brimming with excitement for the upcoming season, as Harbaugh has never had a more explosive group of playmakers on offense in his nine years at Michigan.

The more dominant the offensive line becomes, the more JJ McCarthy, Blake Corum, and Donavan Edwards will continue to render defenders helpless. It’s as simple as that.



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