Sooners' Offensive Line and Tight Ends

There is probably not a better O-Line in the country than Oklahoma's line. With all five starters back, three of them 2007 all-Big 12 selections, the Sooners' line should be dominant in both pass protection and run blocking.



The headliner of the unit is left guard Duke Robinson, a 1st team All-American and a certain first-round NFL draft pick. Robinson, along with big left tackle Phil Loadholdt will anchor the left side of the line. Center Jon Cooper, a Remington list candidate this year, Brandon Walker and Branndon Braxton round out the other side of the trench.


DUKE ROBINSON

If this unit plays well, they should give all kinds of time for Bradford to throw, just as they did last year. In 2007, the running lanes weren't always there. I would definitely like to see this aspect improve. If it does, and DeMarco Murray gets a seam, it's lights out.

Moving on to the tight ends, OU returns two incredible players. Jermaine Gresham came to OU two years ago with mega-hype and has delivered. His 11 touchdown catches led the team and all TEs in the nation last year. He is a beast this year, bulking up even more to 260 pounds. There will be few defenders who will be able to cover him, if any. I foresee Gresham playing an even bigger role this year with the loss of Malcolm Kelly. If I was Sam Bradford, I'd be throwing his way every down.


JERMAINE GRESHAM

Brody Eldridge is the best blocker on the team. He lines up at fullback often and lays key blocks in running situations. Eldridge will no doubt dominate defenders again this year. He is an unsung hero and a favorite of Bob Stoops'.


BRODY ELDRIDGE


Being an offensive lineman 'all guts, no glory'... newsok.com

Loadholt big man for OU...enidnews.com

Duke Robinson and Ryan Stanchek: The Best of College Football's Big Uglies...bleacherreport.com

Gresham says he'll stay...tulsaworld.com

Gresham just getting better and better...ardmoreite.com