Spring Preview: Offensive Line

March 6, 2003

Norman, Okla. - Players with starting experience at the position: OT Jammal Brown, OT Wes Sims, OG Kelvin Chaisson, OG Davin Joseph, C Vince Carter, C Chris Bush.

In 2002, it was easy to spot the improvement of Nate Hybl and Quentin Griffin. Hybl was more effective because he was on his back less and Griffin's productivity increased with more numerous holes in the opposing defenses.

The party responsible for both was an offensive line that may have just scratched the surface of its capability. The coaches are downright excited about the development of the line.

Both tackles return in All-Big 12 selection Jammal Brown and Wes Sims. Sims moved from the right side to the left after the 2001 season. Brown stepped in on the right for the '02 campaign.

Another candidate is Bret Rayl.

At guard, OU spent most of last season with seniors Mike Skinner and Brad Davis in the starting roles. Davis was felled in the ninth game by a broken leg, opening the way for then-redshirt freshman Kelvin Chaisson. Skinner had to fight all season to keep true freshman Davin Joseph at bay. Joseph eventually broke through when he got the nod over Chaisson in the Rose Bowl.

Just based on last season, those two sophomores come in as top candidates. It may not be that simple, though. Players like Chris Bush and Abner Estrada both worked at center last season, but could play that position or possibly guard. Time will tell.

The most experienced center is Vince Carter, who has 21 career starts in the middle of the OU line. Not bad for a junior who never took a redshirt season.

University of Oklahoma Athletics

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