Fall is right around the corner. The Roadrunners will report for fall camp on July 31st for year two of the Frank Wilson era. Today we will look at the offensive line.
This team ability to win the west and contend for the CUSA title rests with the offensive line. Although there was improvement from 2015 to 2016 the offensive line still struggled to keep Sturm upright. The issue has not been the interior as both Jarveon Williams and Jalen Rhodes have rushed relatively well these past two years, but when UTSA has to pass they have struggled in pass protection.
UTSA graduated both tackles last season and though that might seem like an issue the tackle position might be able to improve in 2017. Sophomore junior college transfer Josh Dunlop will handle the left tackle spot. Dunlop will start for UTSA the next three years and will likely earn an all-conference selection at some point. After an impressive spring it is safe to say the left side will be in good hands. The spring depth chart has Reed Darragh as his backup, but I think Darragh will take over the right tackle spot after fall camp. Redshirt freshman Josh Oatis is poised to get some run this season backing up or starting at right tackle. If Oatis is able to take over the right tackle spot Darragh will be used in a utility role taking snaps wherever he is needed.
The strongest part of this offensive line without a doubt is the guard and center positions. Austin Pratt and Stefan Beard return to continue and maul people at the left (Pratt) and right (Beard) guard positions. UTSA had to toy with the line last season before finding the right combination of guys. This year both of the guard spots are locked down.
Kyle McKinney has transitioned from playing guard to center. McKinney is listed as backup to both Beard and Pratt, but unless there is an injury he will be starting at center. Behind McKinney senior Juan Perez will provide much needed experience.
Junior college center/guard transfer Jordan Wright, along with redshirt freshman tackle Zach Pare, and guard David Anzaldua will look to crack the two-deep after fall camp.
For a 30-day free trial use: UTSA30
