Penn State Nittany Lions

Penn State Football: Don't Overlook the Play of the Offensive Line This Season

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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Penn State’s offensive line played a key role in the turnaround of the offense this season.

After struggling on offense for the past two seasons, Penn State quickly turned into one of the most potent offenses in the nation this season. The Nittany Lions rank 35th in total offense this year, compared to being ranked 92nd in 2015. One of the reasons for the improvement has been the play of the guys up front.

When James Franklin hired Joe Moorhead as offensive coordinator last year there was hope that the Penn State offense would improve. Moorhead’s up-tempo, high-powered offense took a while to get going, but now appears to be in top form.

Quarterback Trace McSorley, running back Saquon Barkley, and several receivers, including tight end Mike Gesicki, get most of the credit for the offensive improvement, and deservedly so. The numbers are tough to argue with. McSorley has thrown for 3,360 yards and 25 touchdowns. Barkley has rushed for 16, and Gesicki and Chris Godwin have combined for 13 scores.

While the numbers of the skill position players are impressive it’s what doesn’t always get shown in the statistics that needs to receive some credit.

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The play of the offensive line has been dramatically improved from the last two seasons. It’s no secret that the Nittany Lions struggled to block opposing defenses and had one of the worst lines in the nation over the past few years.

Penn State has allowed 21 sacks this season, ranking sixth in the Big Ten. There’s still room for improvement, but that number is way down from the 39 the unit allowed last year. Sure, having a mobile quarterback helps the offensive line, but there’s been clear progress made.

Offensive line coach Matt Limegrover came to Penn State with the task of changing a struggling line. So far, it’s been very good.

A mix of veterans and talented newcomers helped the unit improve this year. Brian Gaia provided veteran leadership at center, while guys like Connor McGovern, Ryan Bates and Steven Gonzalez all stepped up when needed.

Bates was honored for his efforts this year by being named a freshman All-American by USA TODAY.

Even when injuries took their toll on the line in the middle of the season, the group didn’t crumble. Despite losing three tackles in Andrew Nelson, Brendan Mahon, and Paris Palmer, the NIttany Lions were still successful.

There are clearly several reasons for Penn State’s improvement this year, and the play of the offensive line should not get overlooked.

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