Mailbag Question:

Hello:

Totally agree with your comments in the latest Michigan Tidbits although I never got the impression that Scott Loeffler slacked off in recruiting either.

My question has to do with the Offensive Line recruits from last year. Most, if not all, of last year's Offensive Line recruits have been red-shirted which should give them a year of practice and S&C with Coach Barwis. What is your estimation of whether they will be able to contribute next year and help fix our Offensive Line problems or will we need to wait for new Offensive Line recruits to come on board?

Thanks,

Bob

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Thanks for the question. We would be very surprised if some of last years Offensive Line recruits do not push for playing time next year.

Whether or not they start is going to be determined by who works hardest in off-season, and who has the best spring and fall camps.

It is almost impossible to project exactly who will take the big step and see meaningful playing time. When/if we attend Michigan’s 2009 coaching clinic and spring practices we will get better feel for who is showing the greatest progress.

Just remember in Offensive Line play there is no substitute for experience and time playing together as a group.

The one player that we believe has the best chance to start or get a lot of playing time is Ricky Barnum.

This is one area that we have complained about in recruiting. Having Barwis helps with the S&C part of it from the past, but he can’t do it all. You still need talented players and Michigan has many bodies, but not a lot of great offensive line guys. Places like Ohio State, Notre Dame, and even Michigan State now is getting very good players and talent matters. Most of these places have great S&C coaches and programs so talent and coaching matters now more than ever.

written by CoachBt and ErocWolverine