Washington Huskies Football: Rebuilding the offensive line
One of the biggest areas the Washington Huskies need to improve is on the offensive line. This spring, several positions are up for grabs.
The Washington Huskies are in the middle of Spring Practice, working toward the annual Spring Game on April 30. By far, the biggest question mark among position groups is the offensive line. That’s partially due to the unit’s disappointing 2021 and partially because of turnover.
It is hard to know whether last season’s disappointment had to do with the scheme or just bad performance. Their poor play was a big reason why UW fired offensive coordinator John Donovan before the season ended. Although
They weren’t much better after he left, either. That’s why it was interesting that offensive line coach Scott Huff was the only assistant coach under Jimmy Lake’s regime to return under Kaelen DeBoer.
The Battles Begin
The Huskies have 15 players competing for the five offensive line positions, with seven listed as redshirt freshmen and one true freshman, Parker Brailsford, out of Mesa, Arizona.
Center
Last season’s backup Corey Luciano takes over at center after starter Luke Wattenberg used up his college eligibility. Luciano played in all 12 games last season, bringing his career appearances to 22 in three seasons.
Fifth-year junior Matteo Mele is the backup as of now. After missing the first two games of 2021, he played in the last 10. Additionally, Mete played six games at center, including a start, in the two prior seasons. He’s also in the mix at left tackle.
Inexperienced redshirt freshman Geirean Hatchett is third and hopes to see his first game action this year. According to Mike Vorel of the Seattle Times, Brailsford was number four to start spring practice. But he could move to another position before it’s over.