The offensive line has been a major strength for the Florida Gators to start the season. The unit has allowed one sack and paved the way for 419 rushing yards through the first two games. The sack came in the 2nd half of the Kentucky game after Michael Tarquin went down with an injury, a play that could have been avoided if Anthony Richardson threw the ball away.
One reason for the success of the Gators’ offensive line is that it’s an experienced and veteran group. Every starter on the line is in their fourth or fifth year of college football, combining for more than 90 starts as a unit.
Redshirt freshman Austin Barber replaced Michael Tarquin following his injury during Saturday’s game. Richard Gouraige was pleased with Barber’s performance.
“Austin stepped up big time,” Gouraige said. “I knew he was the guy and stuff for that. I just had no doubt that he wasn’t ready at all to play this game. I’m just glad that he contributed a great way.”
For being thrown into a critical role against an aggressive Kentucky defense, I thought Barber played a decent game. I would like to see more consistency from Barber as the season goes on.
Another player that’s filled in when needed for the Gators is redshirt sophomore Richie Leonard. Many people, including myself, were expecting Josh Braun to play the role of backup guard, but it’s been Leonard to this point in the season.
“Richie is a great asset for the team,” Gouraige said. “Having him rotate in the offensive line has definitely helped us. He’s just a great asset for the team.”
It’s great to see two younger players rotating in on the offensive line and gaining experience. The Gators could lose more than just Gouraige this offseason, so it’s important that the Gators are preparing younger players to play a critical role on the offensive line.
If Tarquin is to miss time, Austin Barber will start at RT for the Gators. I’m still very comfortable with this group and think they can compete and play well, especially against South Florida this week.
After Barber, I don’t think the staff is comfortable playing another tackle. Redshirt freshman Kamryn Waites is listed as the next man up, but I imagine the staff would shuffle around the offensive line before playing Waites. At the end of the day the staff wants to play their five best offensive lineman. This is where versatility on the offense line becomes a factor. Josh Braun had experience at tackle early on in his career, he could be an option for the Gators if needed.
The Gators’ offense line is experienced enough that they shouldn’t have too much of a problem switching positions if needed. There are eight players the Gators are comfortable playing on the offensive line. Napier and his staff should be working on getting the ninth and tenth ready to play as the season goes on.
This week’s game against USF could be important for the growth of the unit. If the Gators can jump out to an early lead and contain it, you may see some new faces along the offensive line.