Winning for Nebraska starts up front

The Nebraska Cornhuskers will be as good as their line play in the 2011 season. In my mind the biggest question mark for the Big Red is the play of the offensive line. If the line has good chemistry and depth, then 2011 can close the season with games in Indianapolis and Pasadena. On the other hand, if the offensive line has the injury and cohesiveness issues of the last few seasons then the 2011 season will likely end with a game against Iowa and a low-tier bowl game.


The Nebraska offensive line will be led by center Mike Caputo (6-feet-1, 275 pounds, Senior). Caputo is a little undersized, but with 14 career starts, his leadership will be critical to the Huskers. Cole Pensick (6-2, 275, So.) and Ryne Reeves (6-3, 300, Fr.) provide depth behind Caputo.

The tackle spot has some good experience in returning starter Jeremiah Sirles (6-6, 320, So.) and Marcel Jones (6-7, 320, Sr.). Yoshi Hardrick (6-7, 320, Sr.) has dropped 30 pounds in the off season which may mean that he can contribute more consistently than he did in 2010. Sophomore Brent Qvale (6-7, 320) and freshman Tyler Moore (6-6, 290) also add depth at the tackle spots.

The mix at the guard positions is more of a question mark. Sophomore Andrew Rodriguez (6-6, 325) needs to step up for a pipeline to develop like during the 1990's in Lincoln. The Aurora product has the physical skills to become a star. Brandon Thompson (6-6, 300, Jr.) will also be a factor at guard. Freshman Jake Cotton (6-6, 295) is also getting a very strong look at the position. Ryan Klachko (6-4, 285, Fr.) may be a contributor that fans are not aware of yet.

When the offensive line comes together the 2011 Nebraska football team can be strong. Even with all the injuries up front in 2010, the Huskers were only 84 yards rushing from having three backs over 1,000 yards on the season. Confidence will need to develop quickly. If that occurs, the possibilities are boundless for the Big Red.