An experienced offensive line hopes to pave the way for big numbers at Iowa State this season. Senior center Tom Farniok leads a unit that has a returning starter at all six spots. Farniok says a key will be remaining healthy as he says an older players can handle things better physically as they have had more time to develop strength and technique.
Farniok says the offensive line also has more depth this season. “We’ve got a lot more size, a lot more strength…I think we are more cohesive as a unit, so I think it will be pretty good,” Farniok says.
As one of the seniors Farniok considers himself a leader. “I’ve always been a leader, I’ve always been an intense person and I’ve just kept it going as I’ve gotten older, Farniok says.
ISU offensive coordinator Mark Mangino has been pleased with the progress of the offensive line. “It all starts with them, the play starts with them, if they protect,they block, they do the things they are supposed to we have skill people that can make plays,” Mangino says. He says the linemen understand the burden they carry, as he says this is one of the smartest groups of linemen he’s been around.
The Cyclones open August 30th at home against North Dakota State.