The offensive line: whos' gone, who's back?

The Hoosier Scoop is writing about the same thing today.

Who's back?

Unlike most positions, the O-line doesn't generate much by way of statistics, other than games and snaps played. Nevertheless, after watching an undersized line struggle in 2005, Terry Hoeppner added seven offensive linemen in the recruiting class of 2006, a group that he nicknamed the "seven blocks of limestone." All remain on the team. The group included Pete Saxon (junior guard); Cody Faulkner (guard); Mike Stark (tackle); Roger Saffold (tackle); Alex Perry (center), the five projected starters, per the Hoosier Scoop. Saxon and Saffold played as true freshmen and are listed as juniors; the others redshirted and are listed as sophomores. Tyler Smith (guard) is expected to contribute, and James Brewer, who at 6-8 is the tallest player on the roster, has been injury-plagued in his first two seasons but could be an asset. As the Hoosier Scoop notes, the o-line in 2005, Terry Hoeppner's first season, averaged 6-2. This year, 6-6. The wight remains about the same, but the size of the average IU lineman has increased.

Who's gone?

Charlie Emerson, tackle.

John Sandberg, center/guard.

Ben Wyss, center.

All three started most or all of IU's games last season.