Razorbacks Feel Comfortable, Deeper in Trenches

Devon Manuel has been out for a week due to injury which gave Andrew Chamblee an opportunity to show what he can provide

Author:
Jacob Davis
Updated:
Aug 21, 2023 3:15 AM EDT
Original:
Aug 20, 2023

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Arkansas Razorbacks

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — This season provides a unique opportunity for coach Sam Pittman and his offensive line coach Cody Kennedy. The two have to identify three of the five best offensive linemen who give them the best shot to win in the trenches.

Injuries happen during fall camp, but this wasn't the worst case scenario as seen before. An injury to current starting LT Devon Manuel gave an opportunity to Andrew Chamblee. The Maumelle native was consistent throughout the previous week and gave Pittman something to think about.

"Andrew Chamblee — Devon Manuel hadn't played a lot and you can ask [Trajan Jeffcoat] about this, too — Chamblee had a really good week," Pittman said. "He's solidified at worst the second team [left] tackle spot."

This is the first time this offseason the Hogs' essentially have an unknown at the tackle positions. They will likely start sophomore right tackle Patrick Kutas and have another underclassmen anchor the other end of the line. There's a reason for concern, but also positivity at the spot.

"The [offensive line] was better at pass protection this week," Pittman said. "We have a pretty good front. The defense is difficult to play, especially when they're loaded."

The main concern is whether the line can generate a push at the snap. Many times down the final stretch of 2022, the Razorbacks were bullied at the spot in which Pittman prides himself. However, that portion of the season is blotted out and the Hogs are ready to take on the SEC.

"Trajan Jeffcoat is a real life dude over there," Kennedy said. "He’s an SEC caliber guy that is going to give these tackles. You’re not going to have to worry that they’re prepared to go into SEC play going against him off the edge."

Even in the middle of the line, the Hogs should be prepared for a battle each day in practice. Going up against the likes of Keivie Rose (303 pounds), Anthony "Tank" Booker (351 pounds), Cam Ball (319 pounds) and Eric Gregory (318 pounds) ought to make life hard for anyone, even their own.

"You’ve got to put yourself in those situations that are hard situations," Kennedy said. "Luckily for us we’re not doing it against guys that let you get by halfway doing it. That defensive line is humming now."