2007 Outlook: Offensive Line

Much like last season, the offensive line returns most of its starters and key reserves from the previous year. However, the key difference is that entering the 2007 season, the majority of the group will be entering its second season together.

After the mass exodus in 2004 and a rebuilding in 2005 with most red-shirt freshmen, last season was key for the group to establish a connection. Three of the five linemen, red-shirt juniors Matt Olecki and Kerry Robbins, as well as junior Tom Rainey, each started all 11 games for the Red Raiders.

Junior Scott Sacco appeared in 10 games with nine starts while red-shirt junior Kevin Leavenworth appeared in eight after having started all 11 games in 2005. Red-shirt sophomore Dave Fremont also gained some valuable experience in his first season, appearing in six contests. Expected to be a valuable addition to the group is red-shirt freshman Drew Gallardy who was an All-State Honorable Mention selection as a senior at Altoona High School.

"The offensive line returns a lot of experience," said Rees. "Robbins and Rainey return at center and left tackle while Olecki will move from right guard to right tackle. Sacco should be the starter at left guard and Fremont will start at right guard."

"Leavenworth will start the year as a reserve being able to play at either center or tackle with Gallardy figuring into the mix as well."

The cohesiveness that group was able to build in 2005 and then strengthen in 2006, should hopefully pay dividends in 2007. With the majority this experience entering its third season together as a unit, the coaching staff is hoping that the team can improve its rushing offense that was ranked seventh in the PSAC a year ago while drastically limiting the number of sacks allowed.

Shippensburg was tied with Lock Haven for the league's second-highest total of sacks allowed at 30. An increase in rushing and a decrease in sacks should help improve the performance of the quarterbacks who combined to rank 12th in the PSAC in pass efficiency.

- Red Raider Football -