Auburn Football Spring Practice Preview: Tigers Offensive Line Runs Deep

This is the second article in a series that will preview the 2010 Auburn football spring practice. Today we will look at the offensive line.

Last season, the offensive line was a questionable area due to the lack of depth.  If there is anything that needs attention now, it is the player who will fill the shoes of Andrew McCain.

Auburn returns starters Lee Ziemba, Ryan Pugh, Byron Isom and Mike Berry. Three other seniors, Bart Eddins, Darrell Roseman and Jorrell Bostrom, will also return for the 2010 season. 

When you add four juniors, including JUCO transfer Roszell Gayden, and two sophomores, you already have a two-deep offensive line. 

Most of the non-starters haven't played much on the second team. Roseman, Greene, and Smith didn't play much last year. Offensive line coach Jeff Grimes used Eddins and junior John Sullen as reserves. 

There has also been speculation that Coffeyville Community College transfer Brandon Mosely, who was recruited as a tight end, could move to offensive line.

So with all those names in mind, we shall look at the four starters and discuss who will fill in that fifth spot. 

Lee Ziemba—38 games played

Ziemba has a bit of a history. When Ziemba started as a freshman, he tended to commit several false start penalties.  He has improved over his three seasons, becoming a mainstay of the offensive line.

Though he can get beat off the line at times on the outside pass rush, he has made himself a great tackle on run blocking and most pass rushing attempts. 

Mike Berry—31 games played

Berry has become a big part in the running game up the middle. Several runs went to the left side because of Berry's ability to jump off the snap and bull rush the defensive line. 

Berry is also a force against the pass rush, able to move the defensive pressure around the ball. 

Ryan Pugh—33 games played

Pugh is the anchor of the offensive line. He took over at center during his career and has excelled in the position. As with any center, he directs where the blocking needs to go after recognizing the defense up front. 

Pugh will be called on again to lead the offensive line, which is old hat for him by now.

Byron Isom—21 games played

Isom has played frequently in the last two seasons. He did run into a bit of trouble this season and was suspended for two games. Isom's abilities have grown as he has matured, and Coach Grimes has helped with his skills this past season.

Isom's strength is opening up holes and shifting defensive rushes from the ball carrier.

Who will fill McCain's position?

Typically, I would look for Eddins and Sullen to challenge for the last starting spot.  Gayden would also be a legitimate challenger for the last starting position. If Mosely makes the switch, I wouldn't be surprised to see him make a move as well. 

One thing that must be taken into consideration is that the players mentioned in this article are already working with the team. Auburn also have five freshmen, including top recruits Shon Coleman and Eric Mack, who could challenge for playing time in the fall.  

Auburn should have a legitimate two-deep line as the season starts. With an experienced offensive line, it will not only help the new quarterback, but the stable of running backs going into next season.

Next time we will visit the running backs and how they will fare going into the spring.