The offense Syracuse head coach Dino Babers prefers to operate thrives on an up-tempo pace. However, it’s difficult doing much of anything without a healthy offensive line to pass protect and run block.
Success starts upfront with the big boys on the line. It won’t matter who’s at quarterback this season, Tommy DeVito or Garrett Shrader, if the O-Line is unable to hold up their end.
A strong offensive line has been a missing ingredient for Syracuse and they’ve severely paid for it in the standings the last couple of years.
Offensive tackle Matthew Bergeron plays an integral role to the success of this unit. His switch from the right side of the line to the left coincided with the team’s improving their point production in the second half of the season. Bergeron’s progression, and availability, must continue for the Orange.
Along with Bergeron, this unit will look to get guard Chris Bleich acclimated. The Florida transfer is eligible to play, and Syracuse can benefit from him bringing stability to his position.
Lat season, guard Dakota Davis dealt with a lower body injury. It remains an uphill battle for Davis heading into the season opener for the Orange. Babers has him listed with the second team on the depth chart this week.
For Syracuse, best-case scenario is this unit can establish solid chemistry throughout the first half of the season. To that, however, remaining healthy is a must.
New offensive line coach Mike Schmidt has received early praise for his work with the unit.
But will the offensive line be tougher this year? Are they more technically sound and better in communication? Can this unit remain healthy?
Babers and his staff better hope so. The success of the offense this season for Syracuse will depend on it.
