I get we’ve been saying it for years, but do you genuinely think the offensive line will show no improvement in the run game from last year to this year?
I'm a realist (was an O-lineman). I'm not expecting miracles this season, because you build an OL as a unit not plugging in individuals. However my remark was aimed at these being some of the same guys that were hailed as one of the most experienced groups in the NCAA based on starts, last season. They however seemed to have collectively hit the wall the past two seasons, when that experience should have been translating on the field.
I'm optimistic about their new coaches. I heard a remark though, early on, by Mirabal when he said something to the effect that people look at these big guys and wonder "how can they not be confident," but he insinuated that a few weren't very. That shows this late in their careers, in their play as a unit.
With that said, yes, we should see an improvement. They are the horses we have to ride. I think this OL will be way better coached, it's needs way better addressed and in a few years hopefully recruiting well, will be where it needs to be to make a run.
This year, my expectation is taking Mirabal at his word, that they won't be a weakness. That would be a big step and improvement.