Early Silver Linings for 2015 FSU Football

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The Offensive Line

The Seminoles began 2014 with an all-senior offensive line, which many point to as a major concern for the 2015 season. However, due to an in-season injury and some shuffling along the front, the ‘Noles will not be as green as they were supposed to be in 2015. When senior center Austin Barron suffered an arm injury, then-freshman Ryan Hoefeld got some good burn at the position, and was able to learn from a number of future pros on either side of him. The game seemed a bit fast for Hoefeld, but make no mistake about it, he’ll be a better player in 2015 now that he has that experience.

Another huge bonus was the emergence of now-sophomore Roderick Johnson at left tackle. Johnson performed admirably in protecting Jameis Winston’s blindside and contributing to an offensive line that opened up much nicer holes when Cameron Erving made the move to center. So, again, this isn’t plugging in a brand-new LT, as many thought it would be. “Big Rod” comes in as a seasoned and accomplished competitor.

Furthermore, massive JUCO transfer Kareem Are will take over for Jose Matias at left guard, and, although he certainly hasn’t contributed as mush as Hoefeld and Johnson, he has played at the collegiate level, even if that only pertains to the junior college ranks. The point is, it’s not like his last action came in high school.