CEDAR CITY, Utah - As the Southern Utah Thunderbirds prepare for the upcoming football season, optimism is high surrounding the offensive line, a unit that was pivotal in the team's success last year.

Coach DeLane Fitzgerald Said

"Our football program is excited about our offensive line this fall. After being near the top of the conference in rushing and allowing the fewest sacks of any team in the league last fall, we return four of five starters and nine of our top ten offensive linemen."

Throughout the 2023 season, the Thunderbird offensive line paved the way for an impressive 1715 rushing yards. The line allowed just nine sacks, marking the best performance for a Thunderbird team in a complete season since 2015. This was the fewest sacks allowed in the United Athletic Conference and ranked 7th among FCS teams. The Thunderbirds' offensive front looks to continue its dominance into the 2024 campaign with some familiar names.

Key Players and Expectations

Lyle Santos
A cornerstone of the line, Santos enters his final season as a highly decorated player. Recognized on multiple preseason All-Conference teams, including Phil Steele's First Team All-UAC, Santos was named to the NFL Draft Diamonds Small School Prospect watch list for the 2024 season. Santos is a three-year starter and returns to the lineup having played in various positions on the line over the last few years.  His leadership and experience have been instrumental in the line's success. Santos's presence and consistent performance make him a linchpin for the offense.

Collin Gardner
Entering his third year as a starting left tackle, Gardner's maturity and leadership are crucial for the unit's success. He played in all 11 games last season and earned second-team Phil Steele All-UAC honors following his 2023 season. Gardner's experience and steady play at a critical position are expected to help anchor this year's line.

Kyle Sfarcioc
Sfarcioc, who played in all 11 games last season, has shown significant improvement. After a productive off-season in the weight room, he is poised to be a key contributor. His development and work ethic have been praised, and he is expected to take on a substantial role this season.

Ed Riley
Riley, described as a strong presence both in the weight room and on the field, is viewed as one of the top centers in the conference. His physicality and leadership qualities have made him an invaluable asset to the team. Riley's consistency in all 11 games last season sets a solid foundation for the Thunderbirds' offensive line.

Loimata Mauga
With experience in 10 games last season, Mauga's ability to fit seamlessly into the team's system makes him a versatile and reliable player. His expertise will be essential in maintaining the line's cohesion and adding depth to the rotation up front. 

Steve Eakins and Lookman Balogun
Both Eakins and Balogun are in contention for the starting right tackle spot. Eakins had a productive off-season, while Balogun, a transfer, brings new competition to the position. The battle for starting time will push both players to elevate their game.

Jeremy Perkins and Tevita Fuimaono
Perkins has been highlighted as one of the most improved players on the team, with a strong understanding of the offensive scheme. Fuimaono, another transfer, competes for playing time at the guard position, bringing valuable team-first play to the line.

Season Outlook

The offensive line's performance last year set a high standard. With the return of seasoned players and the infusion of new talent, the Thunderbirds could be a dominant force in the conference once again. The depth and experience of the unit, coupled with strong leadership, provide a solid foundation for the team's offensive success. As they aim to build on last season's second-place finish, the offensive line will be critical to Southern Utah's quest for the UAC championship.

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