SEC Football: Dominant Offensive Lines Key To Stro

Through it's entire history, the SEC has been a rushing conference.

There have been a few pass first teams that were successful over time, but the majority of teams succeeded or failed with the running game.

There is one commonality amongst all successful rushing teams. The offense starts with the offensive line. These are the behemoth players that must control the line of scrimmage to allow for a successful ground attack.

The SEC is full of powerful defensive lines.

This is a conference known for its tough defenses. Every team that wishes to contend for the SEC title must have a successful rushing attack.

Let’s take a look at the offensive line of the six contenders for the SEC title in the coming season. This could give some insight into what team might be the eventual winner.

Power is at a premium for the offensive lineman. He must have other qualities, but power is his main tool.

To generate power and momentum, he must have enough weight. How big are the offensive lines in the SEC?

Here is the average weight by position for each team.

Position	Auburn	Florida	LSU	Georgia	Alabama	Arkansas
Guard	315 lbs.	337 lbs.	290 lbs.	312 lbs.	300 lbs.	309 lbs.
Tackle	320 lbs.	311 lbs.	319 lbs.	304 lbs.	320 lbs.	317 lbs.
Center	294 lbs.	310 lbs.	300 lbs.	298 lbs.	296 lbs.	315 lbs.
Total	1564lbs	1606lbs	1518lbs	1530lbs	1536lbs	1567lbs
Avg.	313 lbs.	321 lbs.	304 lbs.	306 lbs.	307 lbs.	313 lbs.

In comparison, Boise State averages 290 lbs. across their offensive line and Ohio State averages 304.6 lbs. Some experts consider them major contenders for the BCS title.

The average SEC team is 1778 lbs. total across their front seven on defense.