What Returns for USF in 2012: Offensive Line

Quinterrius Eatmon will play a key role next season as the Bulls look to sure up the offensive line (Picture: www.gousfbulls.com)

The USF line was a strength for the team in 2011. With Chaz Hine at center, USF was one of the best running teams and protect B.J. Daniels throughout the season. In 2012, the Bulls will have to replace two starters on the offensive line and continue to work with the young group of linemen that are on the roster. Here is what USF has returning in 2012.

At left tackle, USF returns Mark Popek (6-7 290-pounds) giving USF a veteran on the blind side of the quarterback to help protect him. Freshman Darrell Williams (6-5 266-pounds) also returns after getting some playing time during the season. He will battle for the spot, but will have to bulk up in the off season.

At left guard, the Bulls are thin. John McGhin returns, but he has battled injuries during his career. USF will have to find a way to replace Jeremiah Warren at this position.

At center, both Chaz Hine and Keith McCaskill are gone, leaving USF without a real starter at this position. It would appear that sophomore Austin Reiter (6-3 272-pounds) would have the edge at the position, but someone else could challenge him during the Spring.

At left guard junior Daneous Esternor (6-3 297-pounds) returns along with junior Damien Edwards (6-5 322-pounds). At right tackle, freshman Quinterrius Eatmon (6-6 304-pounds) returns after starting at tackle all season. His key back-up, Darren Powe, is gone now, leaving the job in his hands.

The Bulls have plenty of talent returning, but most of the players are very young and inexperienced at this point, making it a real challenge to develop a depth chart. Sophomore Steven Jacques (6-3 290-pounds) is one of the key players at guard and will battle for playing time.

Freshman Mak Djulbegovic (6-5 257-pounds) returns, but needs to add weight to get more of a chance on the line. Freshman Brynjar Gudmundsson (6-4 289-pounds) has the frame and skill to make an impact. Freshman Thor Jozwiak (6-4 295-pounds) was progressing well but sat out the rest of the season with a shoulder injury. He could battle for either the guard position or even center. Freshman Jake Kaufman (6-9 362-pounds) has battled back injuries but continues to fight. Freshman Max Lang (6-5 279-pounds) was a highly regarded talent coming out of high school along with fellow freshman David Simon (6-3 280-pounds). Both have to get better and help add depth on the line. Freshman Jake Smith (6-5 279-pounds) and freshman Mike York (6-3 357-pounds) will all battle for playing time as well.