If the Iowa Hawkeyes regain their winning ways this season the offensive line will play a major factor. Several starters are back from an interior line that struggled with injuries and inconsistencies during a 6-6 season in 2007. Bryan Bulaga anchors the left tackle spot after seeing extensive time as a true freshman.
Bulaga says Iowa has a right tradition of top offensive linemen and that is something they want to maintain and work on. Iowa gave up 46 sacks last season and Bulaga says they need to learn from that experience and not just forget about it. He says they have to look back to learn from their mistakes, and can’t just throw out the tape.
It is unusual for a true freshman to get playing time on the offensive line Bulaga feels that experience will help him this season. Bulaga says he thinks he has improved, and says the experience of the entire line makes him a better player, as they all push each other.
Offensive coordinator Ken O’Keefe says good offensive line play sets up their entire offense. He says the pro-style attack depends on being efficient and good blocking to be successful.
O’Keefe says the first priority is to upgrade the running game. He says they want to hang their hat on their ability to run the ball. O’Keefe says you have to run the ball to keep the defense honest, and anyone who competes for a championship has run the ball. Iowa opens the season on August 30th at home against Maine.