Oregon’s new offensive line coach Mario Cristobal comes from Alabama, a program that produces NFL caliber lineman annually. He doesn’t have a roster full of 5-star recruits to work with, but Oregon boasts a talented and experienced group that could become one of the best in the country under Cristobal’s lead.
The Ducks basically return five starters from last season. Cameron Hunt was the only starter to depart, but because Tyrell Crosby suffered an injury early in the season, sophomore Brady Aiello became a starter.
The Oregon offensive line wasn’t its usually dominant self in 2016. Crosby’s injury impacted the production, but the Ducks still dropped to the lowest yards per game total since 2006.
One season of experience for an offensive line that consisted of redshirt freshman will go a long way in improving production. Chemistry is important on the offensive line, and with possibly five starters coming from the same class, it could be a huge positive for the Ducks.
“The emphasis is on being physical, being tough and making sure that the communication is perfect on every single play,” Cristobal said. “I wouldn’t trade these guys for anybody.”
It sounds like typical coach speak, but he’s probably right.
The Ducks have a problem, but a good one, in figuring out the depth chart. There are more than five players worthy of starting positions.
Redshirt sophomore Jake Hanson will most likely be the starting center. To his left will be Shane Lemieux. He started all 12 games at left guard last season, and it will likely be the same this season.
The right guard is an open position. Senior Jake Pisarcik is a prime candidate for the position with his 2014 starting experience. Aiello and 2016 starting right tackle Calvin Throckmorton could switch to a guard position to fill the void.
Yet, Throckmorton was a steady force at right tackle last season and is one of the more promising players in the Pac-12. A quality position battle will take place between Crosby and Aiello for the left tackle position. The Ducks have two good choices. Crosby is an Outland Trophy watchlist member for the second straight year. Aiello played well in his absence last season.
Projected Depth Chart:
LT: Tyrell Crosby, Sr., Brady Aiello, R-So.
LG: Shane Lemieux, R-So., Evan Voeller, Sr.
C: Jake Hanson, R-So., Zak Okun, So.
RG: Jake Pisarcik, Sr., Doug Brenner, Sr.
RT: Calvin Throckmorton, R-So., George Moore, So.
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