As the University of Louisville Cardinals get ready for their football season, everyone’s watching the offensive line. Head coach Jeff Brohm enters his third year, and there’s been a lot of turnover up front.
With key departures and some intriguing newcomers, the offensive line will play a huge role in how this team fares. Let’s take a closer look at the changes, the new faces, and what fans might see when the Cardinals kick off against Eastern Kentucky University on August 30 at L&N Stadium.
The State of Louisville’s Offensive Line
The Cardinals’ offensive line has changed a lot in the last two years. Jeff Brohm and offensive line coach Richard Owens have really worked to rebuild this unit.
Heading into year three, the line looks pretty different compared to the past. There’s a sense that things are still shifting, maybe even week to week.
Notable Departures
The Cardinals lost several important players from last season. Some of the biggest names gone are:
- OT Michael Gonzalez: Four-year starter and All-ACC performer.
- OT Monroe Mills: Entered the transfer portal.
- OG Austin Collins: Also transferred.
- OT Jonathan Mendoza: Graduated.
- OT Renato Brown: Another big loss.
Returning Players
Even after all the turnover, the Cardinals still have a core group of returners who could make a real difference. Here’s who’s back:
- C Pete Nygra: All-ACC performer, started every game last year.
- OT Trevonte Sylvester: Played in 11 games, likely in the mix for a starting job.
- OT Rasheed Miller: Was a key piece before his hand injury last season.
- OG Lance Robinson
- C/OG Victor Cutler
- OG Fred Johnson
- OT Ransom McDermott
- OT Jimmy Williams III
Newcomers
Brohm and Owens didn’t just sit back—they brought in a mix of high school talent and transfers to strengthen the line. Here are some of the new names:
High School Freshmen
- Gradey Anthony
- Tyler Folmar
- Cameron Gorin
Transfer Players
- Jordan Church: From Florida Atlantic.
- Michael Flores: From Old Dominion.
- Carter Guillaume: From SE Missouri.
- Naeer Jackson: From Florida International.
- Mahamane Moussa: From Purdue.
- Makylan Pounders: From Mississippi State.
- Sam Secrest: From Houston, now back at U of L.
Position Outlooks
Tackle Positions
The battle for the tackle spots looks pretty heated. Trevonte Sylvester and Rasheed Miller both bring experience, but spring ball showed Purdue transfer Mahamane Moussa and Mississippi State’s Makylan Pounders could push for snaps.
It’s tough to say who’ll win out, but the competition should raise the overall level. Fans might see some rotation early in the season.
Guard Positions
At guard, things feel a bit more up in the air. Lance Robinson and Naeer Jackson (the transfer from FIU) seem like early favorites for starting roles.
Jordan Church from FAU and the versatile Sam Secrest, who’s back after a year away, could get plenty of chances too. There’s a lot to sort out, honestly.
Center Position
The center spot seems pretty locked down. Pete Nygra started every game last year and looked solid.
Victor Cutler is likely the main backup, but Carter Guillaume’s ability to play multiple positions—including center—gives the staff some flexibility.
Top Breakout Candidate
If you’re looking for a breakout star, Rasheed Miller is the name to watch. At 6-foot-7 and 310 pounds, he was playing really well before getting hurt last year.
The coaches are hoping he can take another step, maybe even snag some All-ACC honors. There’s definitely some buzz around him this summer.
Conclusion
The University of Louisville’s offensive line looks ready for a wild season. There’s a good mix of seasoned veterans and some fresh faces who could surprise people.
Head coach Jeff Brohm teams up with offensive line coach Richard Owens to shape this group. Honestly, if things click, the line might become a real headache for opponents.
The Cardinals are gearing up for their opener against Eastern Kentucky University. Fans should keep an eye out for a line that’s both coordinated and unpredictable at times—never a dull moment.
If you’re after deeper dives or more updates on Louisville’s offensive line, check out the full article on 247Sports.
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