A trademark of Kyle Whittingham-coached teams is a solid offensive line. Last season, the Michigan Wolverines offensive line was, at times, downright offensive. Finishing the season tied for 73rd nationally in rushing, 157.2 yards/game, and allowing 66 tackles for loss for a total of 18 more than the previous season. The line never found consistent play with five new starters. The line took a major step back from when Joe Moore was in charge.
Along with Whittingham, Jim Harding took over as offensive line coach. Harding was on Whittingham’s staff at the University of Utah. So what can be expected from a Harding-coached offensive line? He has a reputation for bringing a physicality to the unit that is also technically sound.
Harding believes a good offensive line can produce pocket protection on passing downs and open running lanes on run downs. Something Michigan struggled with last season. A big part of the Wolverines issues last season was recognition at the line of scrimmage, which led to a lack of cohesion throughout the season and never improved.
Most teams give line recognition to the center and have he communicated with his line mates as to defensive formation and blocking assignments. That did not happen last season. Harding has said that there will be better communication this season. During spring practice, the unit struggled, but Harding is introducing his style and his expectations. That can be a lot to take in with just 15 practices.
When a team’s offensive line is solid, the rest of the team is solid. A good offensive line extends drives and limits the defense, which helps keep that unit fresh longer into games. It helps the receivers, quarterback and running game. The offensive line is critical to a team’s success or failures.
For the Wolverines to improve and be more competitive in games, the line must adapt and improve under Jim Harding, and they should.
This site is outstanding. Brian has a firm grasp of Michigan and Detroit sports.
That said he is dead on about the U of M o-line. This group was bad last season even with Crippen at center. No where to go but up.
Brian you absolutely nailed it. The offensive line as downright putrid at times last season. Moore was a terrible coach. Whittingham has a real eye for detail.