Offensive Tackle for next season- could be in some trouble...

[grinagrin]

If Ryan Bates declares as many have suspected, his mom was crying during Senior Day, this will leave Fries as one starter for sure but after that there is nobody with any kind of game experience. Also, unfortunately Fries always seems to have injury issues nagging him during the season, which can be a major problem if that’s the case next season.

The retirement of Nana was a huge loss, we will really need some of the young guys to step up and be ready for the big stage next year. Other OTackles on the roster
Gellerstadt- no meaningful pt
Des Holmes- no meaningful pt
Walker- Big time recruit, redshirted this year, need him to be developing quickly, has a chance to be 3-4 year starter
Effner- a swing player, not sure if the staff has him practicing inside or outside
Whigan- coming from JUCO, may see a lot of snaps next year

That’s it.

Some reasons for the low numbers.
‘15 Jenkins- never developed and now moving on and only other true OT that year was P. Palmer for 2 years (Bates used as an OT due to depth issues)
‘17 R. Martin- not the highest recruit but still a body, left the team
‘18 Nana Asiedu- prized OT recruit but unfortunately had to retire due to health issues.
‘19 so far only one OT in this class although many have mentioned that Caedan Wallace has the body type to perhaps be moved to OT. I think the staff were banking on getting Jakai Moore. Hopefully we can get another OT or 2 by next signing day at least for depth in the future.

Now before you guys kill me (LaJolla, AWS, Storming), this is a discussion board. I love CJF, but sometimes he doesn’t substitute or get guys in the games early enough, whether in a blow out win or loss, to give young guys valuable experience for future seasons, and this goes for many positions across the board. I understand at times guys may just not be ready, but that isn’t always the case. This may be an issue for the lack of experience head into next year. Hopefully Hopefully Bates comes back for a 5th year.

Thoughts?

 

[Ceasar]

I agree with you OT could be a concern and that's why, if we can keep only Bates or McGovern, I would choose Bates. But let's say we lose him. In all likelihood we would have a two deep of Fries, Walker, Holmes, Gellerstadt with Whigan maybe a darkhorse. That's five so I think we would be okay. I would offer one other possibility and that would be possibly looking at McGovern at OT if he returns. He has the size and IIRC has practiced at that spot.

 

[danvillenit]

Is Thorpe staying at DT or is he returning to OL? Soon after the switch Franklin stated he thought OL was still his best position

 

[grinagrin]

Is Thorpe staying at DT or is he returning to OL? Soon after the switch Franklin stated he thought OL was still his best position

I believe he’ll eventually be coming back to the offensive side of the ball, but he is OG. We have pretty good depth on the interior OL.

 

[Judge Smails]

Is Thorpe staying at DT or is he returning to OL? Soon after the switch Franklin stated he thought OL was still his best position

They think very highly of Holmes and Walker, and Whigan arrives on campus in a few weeks. You’d think a JUCO kid like him could step right in. Between the 3 of them, I think they can find a right tackle who is at mimimum solid.

 

[grinagrin]

They think very highly of Holmes and Walker, and Whigan arrives on campus in a few weeks. You’d think a JUCO kid like him could step right in. Between the 3 of them, I think they can find a right tackle who is at mimimum solid.

I hope so and you’re probably right. But what really worries me is if we lose Fries for any games due to injury. That could make for a serious problem.

 

[GregInPitt]

It's the nature of college football to replace players every year, and a luxury to have an experienced player to fill in for the departing players. Especially when players with eligibility remaining leave for the the NFL. Pretty common for young players at positions other than OL to get significant playing time before starting, but with the benefits of starting and playing the same players almost exclusively on the OL there are almost always players that must start on the OL each year that have limited experience. It is what it is.

Franklin had good things to say about Gellerstadt in the past, as I remember his comments on Gelerstadt's work ethic. I would expect Gellerstadt to participate in Spring practice and compete for playing time in 2019, especially if Bates declares for the draft. (If he does not achieve a spot where he can play going into 2020 he could grad transfer for his last year of eligibility in 2020)

Fries has had some ups and downs, but OL players usually get better the more they play and as they mature and I expect Fries to play well in 2019. CJF and Limegrover recognized Fries' physical talent during his true freshman season.

Effner does not look to be big and long enough to excel at OT, and I look for him to compete more so at Guard as he continues to get stronger (not in 2019).

Holmes may also compete at OT if Bates moves on, but he seems to be a swing player that may eventually end up starting at Guard. But together with Gellerstadt, Walker and Whigan we seem to have plenty of talent to develop a starting OT going into the conference schedule in 2019 if Bates leaves. Sure it would be better if Bates stayed, but that's the nature of college football for teams that recruit and develop NFL caliber players.

The fact that PSU should have at least 3 returning OL starters going into 2019 (Menet, Fries, and hopefully at least one of Gonzalez/McGovern) will be a positive, and Limegrover should be able to assemble a talented OL with the talent competing for the open starting positions between Miranda, Holmes, Gellerstadt, Walker, Whigan...
If Walker is as talented as reported, it would not surprise me to see him win a starting spot if both Bates and McGovern leave for the NFL.

 

[BBrown]

If Ryan Bates declares as many have suspected, his mom was crying during Senior Day, this will leave Fries as one starter for sure but after that there is nobody with any kind of game experience. Also, unfortunately Fries always seems to have injury issues nagging him during the season, which can be a major problem if that’s the case next season.

The retirement of Nana was a huge loss, we will really need some of the young guys to step up and be ready for the big stage next year. Other OTackles on the roster
Gellerstadt- no meaningful pt
Des Holmes- no meaningful pt
Walker- Big time recruit, redshirted this year, need him to be developing quickly, has a chance to be 3-4 year starter
Effner- a swing player, not sure if the staff has him practicing inside or outside
Whigan- coming from JUCO, may see a lot of snaps next year

That’s it.

Some reasons for the low numbers.
‘15 Jenkins- never developed and now moving on and only other true OT that year was P. Palmer for 2 years (Bates used as an OT due to depth issues)
‘17 R. Martin- not the highest recruit but still a body, left the team
‘18 Nana Asiedu- prized OT recruit but unfortunately had to retire due to health issues.
‘19 so far only one OT in this class although many have mentioned that Caedan Wallace has the body type to perhaps be moved to OT. I think the staff were banking on getting Jakai Moore. Hopefully we can get another OT or 2 by next signing day at least for depth in the future.

Now before you guys kill me (LaJolla, AWS, Storming), this is a discussion board. I love CJF, but sometimes he doesn’t substitute or get guys in the games early enough, whether in a blow out win or loss, to give young guys valuable experience for future seasons, and this goes for many positions across the board. I understand at times guys may just not be ready, but that isn’t always the case. This may be an issue for the lack of experience head into next year. Hopefully Hopefully Bates comes back for a 5th year.

Thoughts?

There are candidates, albeit green. Also the JUCO coming in. Seems to be much more highly regarded than Palmer was. But I too am a little nervous.
I think we'll be ok but it may take a few games.
I kind of agree with your last part. Until the end of the MD game most of the starters on OL played the entire game. I would have liked to see a little more
playing time for some of the younger guys and said so after viewing the participation charts after some of the games last season.

 

[BBrown]

I agree with you OT could be a concern and that's why, if we can keep only Bates or McGovern, I would choose Bates. But let's say we lose him. In all likelihood we would have a two deep of Fries, Walker, Holmes, Gellerstadt with Whigan maybe a darkhorse. That's five so I think we would be okay. I would offer one other possibility and that would be possibly looking at McGovern at OT if he returns. He has the size and IIRC has practiced at that spot.

Like and agree with your post for the most part. Only part I disagree with is that I don't want McGovern moving again. Moving him back to Guard this season probably wasn't the best. JMO

 

[BBrown]

Is Thorpe staying at DT or is he returning to OL? Soon after the switch Franklin stated he thought OL was still his best position

I'm pretty positive he'll be moving back. Its was an emergency stop gap after some untimely injuries.

 

[blion72]

It's the nature of college football to replace players every year, and a luxury to have an experienced player to fill in for the departing players. Especially when players with eligibility remaining leave for the the NFL. Pretty common for young players at positions other than OL to get significant playing time before starting, but with the benefits of starting and playing the same players almost exclusively on the OL there are almost always players that must start on the OL each year that have limited experience. It is what it is.

Franklin had good things to say about Gellerstadt in the past, as I remember his comments on Gelerstadt's work ethic. I would expect Gellerstadt to participate in Spring practice and compete for playing time in 2019, especially if Bates declares for the draft. (If he does not achieve a spot where he can play going into 2020 he could grad transfer for his last year of eligibility in 2020)

Fries has had some ups and downs, but OL players usually get better the more they play and as they mature and I expect Fries to play well in 2019. CJF and Limegrover recognized Fries' physical talent during his true freshman season.

Effner does not look to be big and long enough to excel at OT, and I look for him to compete more so at Guard as he continues to get stronger (not in 2019).

Holmes may also compete at OT if Bates moves on, but he seems to be a swing player that may eventually end up starting at Guard. But together with Gellerstadt, Walker and Whigan we seem to have plenty of talent to develop a starting OT going into the conference schedule in 2019 if Bates leaves. Sure it would be better if Bates stayed, but that's the nature of college football for teams that recruit and develop NFL caliber players.

The fact that PSU should have at least 3 returning OL starters going into 2019 (Menet, Fries, and hopefully at least one of Gonzalez/McGovern) will be a positive, and Limegrover should be able to assemble a talented OL with the talent competing for the open starting positions between Miranda, Holmes, Gellerstadt, Walker, Whigan...

good summary and we are deep in the middle just OT is the issue. we are going to likely need some of the natural guards to become OT.

On the NFL channel they talked about the 4 most critical positions are DT, QB, CB and OT, as they are in the shortest supply.

 

[Uh Clem]

As the father of a former college football offensive tackle, I have a ton of sympathy for these kids. They are tall and heavy, yet they are just like their 5’8” 160lb classmates. They are big kids who are typically late growing into their bodies, they only get mentioned when they f-up, yet they are critical to their team’s success. On the plus side, they are among the brightest students on the team. My own kid is a successful attorney despite his on again off again experience on the gridiron.

 

[blion72]

If Ryan Bates declares as many have suspected, his mom was crying during Senior Day, this will leave Fries as one starter for sure but after that there is nobody with any kind of game experience. Also, unfortunately Fries always seems to have injury issues nagging him during the season, which can be a major problem if that’s the case next season.

The retirement of Nana was a huge loss, we will really need some of the young guys to step up and be ready for the big stage next year. Other OTackles on the roster
Gellerstadt- no meaningful pt
Des Holmes- no meaningful pt
Walker- Big time recruit, redshirted this year, need him to be developing quickly, has a chance to be 3-4 year starter
Effner- a swing player, not sure if the staff has him practicing inside or outside
Whigan- coming from JUCO, may see a lot of snaps next year

That’s it.

Some reasons for the low numbers.
‘15 Jenkins- never developed and now moving on and only other true OT that year was P. Palmer for 2 years (Bates used as an OT due to depth issues)
‘17 R. Martin- not the highest recruit but still a body, left the team
‘18 Nana Asiedu- prized OT recruit but unfortunately had to retire due to health issues.
‘19 so far only one OT in this class although many have mentioned that Caedan Wallace has the body type to perhaps be moved to OT. I think the staff were banking on getting Jakai Moore. Hopefully we can get another OT or 2 by next signing day at least for depth in the future.

Now before you guys kill me (LaJolla, AWS, Storming), this is a discussion board. I love CJF, but sometimes he doesn’t substitute or get guys in the games early enough, whether in a blow out win or loss, to give young guys valuable experience for future seasons, and this goes for many positions across the board. I understand at times guys may just not be ready, but that isn’t always the case. This may be an issue for the lack of experience head into next year. Hopefully Hopefully Bates comes back for a 5th year.

Thoughts?

the elite teams usually get at lest one player to come in as FR and play OL. we need to get someone like that this year.

 

[danvillenit]

the elite teams usually get at lest one player to come in as FR and play OL. we need to get someone like that this year.

That would be nice but I don’t see it happening

 

[TheGLOV]

If Ryan Bates declares as many have suspected, his mom was crying during Senior Day, this will leave Fries as one starter for sure but after that there is nobody with any kind of game experience. Also, unfortunately Fries always seems to have injury issues nagging him during the season, which can be a major problem if that’s the case next season.

The retirement of Nana was a huge loss, we will really need some of the young guys to step up and be ready for the big stage next year. Other OTackles on the roster
Gellerstadt- no meaningful pt
Des Holmes- no meaningful pt
Walker- Big time recruit, redshirted this year, need him to be developing quickly, has a chance to be 3-4 year starter
Effner- a swing player, not sure if the staff has him practicing inside or outside
Whigan- coming from JUCO, may see a lot of snaps next year

That’s it.

Some reasons for the low numbers.
‘15 Jenkins- never developed and now moving on and only other true OT that year was P. Palmer for 2 years (Bates used as an OT due to depth issues)
‘17 R. Martin- not the highest recruit but still a body, left the team
‘18 Nana Asiedu- prized OT recruit but unfortunately had to retire due to health issues.
‘19 so far only one OT in this class although many have mentioned that Caedan Wallace has the body type to perhaps be moved to OT. I think the staff were banking on getting Jakai Moore. Hopefully we can get another OT or 2 by next signing day at least for depth in the future.

Now before you guys kill me (LaJolla, AWS, Storming), this is a discussion board. I love CJF, but sometimes he doesn’t substitute or get guys in the games early enough, whether in a blow out win or loss, to give young guys valuable experience for future seasons, and this goes for many positions across the board. I understand at times guys may just not be ready, but that isn’t always the case. This may be an issue for the lack of experience head into next year. Hopefully Hopefully Bates comes back for a 5th year.

Thoughts?

LaJolla does not believe in violence sir.

He does, however, speculate in real-estate!!

 

[GregInPitt]

good summary and we are deep in the middle just OT is the issue. we are going to likely need some of the natural guards to become OT.

On the NFL channel they talked about the 4 most critical positions are DT, QB, CB and OT, as they are in the shortest supply.

The natural Guards are Menet, McGovern, Miranda, Gonzales, Thorpe, Scruggs, and the incoming Wormley. I don't see any of these players moving to OT. Effner, although I believe he has been referred to as a swing player, may also end up at Guard although that is yet to be seen. Holmes and the incoming Wallace also look to be swing players and either could end up at Guard or OT.

Whigan also looks to be a swing olinemen, with a physique similar to Holmes. But with the interior depth and returning starters, it would be pretty surprising if Holmes did not play OT in 2019 whether or not he wins a starting job.

Once the players with NFL options decide the staff will make their plans for Spring practice. It will be interesting to see where all the young olinemen practice this Spring. See you at the B/W game....

That's the way I see it......

 

[lockhavenlion3]

It's the nature of college football to replace players every year, and a luxury to have an experienced player to fill in for the departing players. Especially when players with eligibility remaining leave for the the NFL. Pretty common for young players at positions other than OL to get significant playing time before starting, but with the benefits of starting and playing the same players almost exclusively on the OL there are almost always players that must start on the OL each year that have limited experience. It is what it is.

Franklin had good things to say about Gellerstadt in the past, as I remember his comments on Gelerstadt's work ethic. I would expect Gellerstadt to participate in Spring practice and compete for playing time in 2019, especially if Bates declares for the draft. (If he does not achieve a spot where he can play going into 2020 he could grad transfer for his last year of eligibility in 2020)

Fries has had some ups and downs, but OL players usually get better the more they play and as they mature and I expect Fries to play well in 2019. CJF and Limegrover recognized Fries' physical talent during his true freshman season.

Effner does not look to be big and long enough to excel at OT, and I look for him to compete more so at Guard as he continues to get stronger (not in 2019).

Holmes may also compete at OT if Bates moves on, but he seems to be a swing player that may eventually end up starting at Guard. But together with Gellerstadt, Walker and Whigan we seem to have plenty of talent to develop a starting OT going into the conference schedule in 2019 if Bates leaves. Sure it would be better if Bates stayed, but that's the nature of college football for teams that recruit and develop NFL caliber players.

The fact that PSU should have at least 3 returning OL starters going into 2019 (Menet, Fries, and hopefully at least one of Gonzalez/McGovern) will be a positive, and Limegrover should be able to assemble a talented OL with the talent competing for the open starting positions between Miranda, Holmes, Gellerstadt, Walker, Whigan...

if a guard spot opens up, miranda will be the first in line.

 

[GregInPitt]

if a guard spot opens up, miranda will be the first in line.

Yep, he looks to be next in line at Guard. But I would not count out Thorpe if he moves back to OL this Spring. Or Holmes, who made the depth chart this season and reportedly came on strong this Fall.

 

[marshall23]

Everyone is wasting their time. 21 Guns will make the final call on the OL.

 

[Alphalion75]

If Ryan Bates declares as many have suspected, his mom was crying during Senior Day, this will leave Fries as one starter for sure but after that there is nobody with any kind of game experience. Also, unfortunately Fries always seems to have injury issues nagging him during the season, which can be a major problem if that’s the case next season.

The retirement of Nana was a huge loss, we will really need some of the young guys to step up and be ready for the big stage next year. Other OTackles on the roster
Gellerstadt- no meaningful pt
Des Holmes- no meaningful pt
Walker- Big time recruit, redshirted this year, need him to be developing quickly, has a chance to be 3-4 year starter
Effner- a swing player, not sure if the staff has him practicing inside or outside
Whigan- coming from JUCO, may see a lot of snaps next year

That’s it.

Some reasons for the low numbers.
‘15 Jenkins- never developed and now moving on and only other true OT that year was P. Palmer for 2 years (Bates used as an OT due to depth issues)
‘17 R. Martin- not the highest recruit but still a body, left the team
‘18 Nana Asiedu- prized OT recruit but unfortunately had to retire due to health issues.
‘19 so far only one OT in this class although many have mentioned that Caedan Wallace has the body type to perhaps be moved to OT. I think the staff were banking on getting Jakai Moore. Hopefully we can get another OT or 2 by next signing day at least for depth in the future.

Now before you guys kill me (LaJolla, AWS, Storming), this is a discussion board. I love CJF, but sometimes he doesn’t substitute or get guys in the games early enough, whether in a blow out win or loss, to give young guys valuable experience for future seasons, and this goes for many positions across the board. I understand at times guys may just not be ready, but that isn’t always the case. This may be an issue for the lack of experience head into next year. Hopefully Hopefully Bates comes back for a 5th year.

Thoughts?

If Bates declares...I really don't get it.

 

[blion72]

That would be nice but I don’t see it happening

i am hoping for the kid from WV - 5* OL

 

[Alphalion75]

If Ryan Bates declares as many have suspected, his mom was crying during Senior Day, this will leave Fries as one starter for sure but after that there is nobody with any kind of game experience. Also, unfortunately Fries always seems to have injury issues nagging him during the season, which can be a major problem if that’s the case next season.

The retirement of Nana was a huge loss, we will really need some of the young guys to step up and be ready for the big stage next year. Other OTackles on the roster
Gellerstadt- no meaningful pt
Des Holmes- no meaningful pt
Walker- Big time recruit, redshirted this year, need him to be developing quickly, has a chance to be 3-4 year starter
Effner- a swing player, not sure if the staff has him practicing inside or outside
Whigan- coming from JUCO, may see a lot of snaps next year

That’s it.

Some reasons for the low numbers.
‘15 Jenkins- never developed and now moving on and only other true OT that year was P. Palmer for 2 years (Bates used as an OT due to depth issues)
‘17 R. Martin- not the highest recruit but still a body, left the team
‘18 Nana Asiedu- prized OT recruit but unfortunately had to retire due to health issues.
‘19 so far only one OT in this class although many have mentioned that Caedan Wallace has the body type to perhaps be moved to OT. I think the staff were banking on getting Jakai Moore. Hopefully we can get another OT or 2 by next signing day at least for depth in the future.

Now before you guys kill me (LaJolla, AWS, Storming), this is a discussion board. I love CJF, but sometimes he doesn’t substitute or get guys in the games early enough, whether in a blow out win or loss, to give young guys valuable experience for future seasons, and this goes for many positions across the board. I understand at times guys may just not be ready, but that isn’t always the case. This may be an issue for the lack of experience head into next year. Hopefully Hopefully Bates comes back for a 5th year.

Thoughts?

Used to be that was rare for an underclassmen to declare. It only occurred when the athlete was very exceptional. I guess the money now is just too much to resist.

 

[blion72]

Used to be that was rare for an underclassmen to declare. It only occurred when the athlete was very exceptional. I guess the money now is just too much to resist.

in Bates case, i think he is actually a senior with a 5th year available if he wanted. McGovern going would be the true Junior leaving = hope that does not happen, although the interior positions have more depth available compared to OT. money to leave is becoming too big for most to turn down.

 

[Judge Smails]

If Bates declares...I really don't get it.

McGovern and Bates are 3 year starters. While I’d like them both to stay, I get it.

 

[sluggo72]

i am hoping for the kid from WV - 5* OL

Which one?

 

[sluggo72]

in Bates case, i think he is actually a senior with a 5th year available if he wanted. McGovern going would be the true Junior leaving = hope that does not happen, although the interior positions have more depth available compared to OT. money to leave is becoming too big for most to turn down.

To maximize their pro protental both need to stay

 

[LurkerLazarus]

Perhaps Bates will stay.

 

[lockhavenlion3]

Everyone is wasting their time. 21 Guns will make the final call on the OL.

in that case, it will be fries. they're pulling his shirt. bank on it. oh, wait.......

 

[Tom McAndrew]

Des Holmes- no meaningful pt
Walker- Big time recruit, redshirted this year, need him to be developing quickly, has a chance to be 3-4 year starter

Holmes played in 5 games this season. He played OL in the Pitt game, the Kent State game, and the Illinois game. He also played on special teams in the MSU game and the Wisconsin game. He'll be a RS Soph next season.

Walker played in 3 games this season. He played OL in the Kent State and the Rutgers game, and played special teams in the Maryland game. He can play in the bowl game, and still retain his redshirt.

Whigan was ranked the top JUCO OL prospect at the end of this JUCO season by one JUCO ranking service.

 

[Ian]

2019 OL rotation:
OT Walker, Holmes, Gellerstadt
OG Thorpe, Miranda, Wormley
C Menet, Scruggs
OG Gonzales, Wallace, Effner
OT Fries, Whigan

 

[GregInPitt]

2019 OL rotation:
OT Walker, Holmes, Gellerstadt
OG Thorpe, Miranda, Wormley
C Menet, Scruggs
OG Gonzales, Wallace, Effner
OT Fries, Whigan

CJF will do what he can to redshirt the true freshman olinemen Wallace and Wormley, and whoever he adds in the late signing period. but they could each still play 4 games as we know.

The questions, some of which will be answered in the Spring, are:
1. Will Thorpe move back to OL, and possibly compete with Miranda and Holmes for a starting Guard position (if McGovern leaves)?
2. Will Holmes play Guard or OT? Holmes is at Guard on the current depth chart....
4. If Holmes does play OT, could he move ahead of Gellerstedt? Note that right now the only player ahead of Gellerstedt that will return for 2019, assuming Bates leaves, is Fries.
5. Can Walker move ahead of Gellerstedt (and Holmes if Holmes moves to OT)?
6. Will Whigan play OT or Guard?
7. Has Effner made enough progress in the S & C program (i.e. added enough strength and weight) to make a run up the depth chart (he's currently listed as a 3rd string Guard)?

Lots of competition for possibly 2 open OL starting spots if McGovern and Bates declare for the NFL....

Current Depth Chart (12/12/18)
Left Tackle 71 Will Fries (6-6, 306, Jr./So.) 52 Ryan Bates (6-4, 302, Sr./Jr.) 51 Alex Gellerstedt (6-6, 311, Jr./So.)
Left Guard 74 Steven Gonzalez (6-4, 325, Sr./Jr.) 73 Mike Miranda (6-3, 298, So./Fr.) 72 Bryce Effner (6-5, 272, Fr./Fr.)
Center 62 Michal Menet (6-4, 298, Jr./So.) 64 Zach Simpson (6-3, 290, Sr./Jr.) 70 Juice Scruggs (6-3, 278, Fr./Fr.)
Right Guard 66 Connor McGovern (6-5, 323, Jr./Jr.) 75 Des Holmes (6-5, 322, So./Fr.) 79 Charlie Shuman (6-8, 324, Gr./Sr.)
Right Tackle 52 Ryan Bates (6-4, 302, Sr./Jr.) 77 Chasz Wright (6-7, 353, Gr./Sr.) 51 Alex Gellerstedt (6-6, 311, Jr./So.)

 

[Thomas1945]

CJF will do what he can to redshirt the true freshman olinemen Wallace and Wormley, and whoever he adds in the late signing period. but they could each still play 4 games as we know.

The questions, some of which will be answered in the Spring, are:
1. Will Thorpe move back to OL, and possibly compete with Miranda and Holmes for a starting Guard position (if McGovern leaves)?
2. Will Holmes play Guard or OT? Holmes is at Guard on the current depth chart....
4. If Holmes does play OT, could he move ahead of Gellerstedt? Note that right now the only player ahead of Gellerstedt that will return for 2019, assuming Bates leaves, is Fries.
5. Can Walker move ahead of Gellerstedt (and Holmes if Holmes moves to OT)?
6. Will Whigan play OT or Guard?
7. Has Effner made enough progress in the S & C program (i.e. added enough strength and weight) to make a run up the depth chart (he's currently listed as a 3rd string Guard)?

Lots of competition for possibly 2 open OL starting spots if McGovern and Bates declare for the NFL....

Current Depth Chart (12/12/18)
Left Tackle 71 Will Fries (6-6, 306, Jr./So.) 52 Ryan Bates (6-4, 302, Sr./Jr.) 51 Alex Gellerstedt (6-6, 311, Jr./So.)
Left Guard 74 Steven Gonzalez (6-4, 325, Sr./Jr.) 73 Mike Miranda (6-3, 298, So./Fr.) 72 Bryce Effner (6-5, 272, Fr./Fr.)
Center 62 Michal Menet (6-4, 298, Jr./So.) 64 Zach Simpson (6-3, 290, Sr./Jr.) 70 Juice Scruggs (6-3, 278, Fr./Fr.)
Right Guard 66 Connor McGovern (6-5, 323, Jr./Jr.) 75 Des Holmes (6-5, 322, So./Fr.) 79 Charlie Shuman (6-8, 324, Gr./Sr.)
Right Tackle 52 Ryan Bates (6-4, 302, Sr./Jr.) 77 Chasz Wright (6-7, 353, Gr./Sr.) 51 Alex Gellerstedt (6-6, 311, Jr./So.)

Great report, but just like a large breakfast buffet I’m confused as to what to eat first.

 

[psuno1]

Like and agree with your post for the most part. Only part I disagree with is that I don't want McGovern moving again. Moving him back to Guard this season probably wasn't the best. JMO

McGovern played better at center, should have stayed there, let Menet and Miranda battle it out for guard.

 

[Woodpecker]

Everyone is wasting their time. 21 Guns will make the final call on the OL.

So we'll know when we see the starters in the B/W Game.

 

[83wuzme]

Losing Nana really had an impact.
I wonder if Menet would even be considered as an option for OT ? I know it is not his ideal position, but it wasn’t for Bates, either.

 

[GregInPitt]

Losing Nana really had an impact.
I wonder if Menet would even be considered as an option for OT ? I know it is not his ideal position, but it wasn’t for Bates, either.

Why would the staff move a very good returning starter interior linemen like Menet, who has the ideal size and ability for interior OL, from the interior OL to OT when there are now plenty of options and talent at OT? The obvious candidates are Gellerstadt (RS Jr), Walker (RS Fr), Whigan (JR), and possibly Holmes (RS SO), all having practiced at the college level for multiple years coming out of next Fall's pre-season practices. There are over 100 programs in the country that wish they had that much talent to compete for a single OT vacancy.

When Bates was moved there was very limited talent and depth across the PSU OL, but that is not the case now. I don't believe we will see many position changes as drastic as what happened with Bates going forward....

 

[83wuzme]

Why would the staff move a very good returning starter interior linemen like Menet, who has the ideal size and ability for interior OL, from the interior OL to OT when there are now plenty of options and talent at OT? When Bates was moved there was very limited talent and depth across the PSU OL, but that is not the case now. I don't believe we will see many position changes as drastic as what happened with Bates going forward....

We really don’t have many OT’s on the roster, especially if Bates departs for the NFL. As long as nobody gets hurt, we should be OK.

 

[rag195]

There are candidates, albeit green. Also the JUCO coming in. Seems to be much more highly regarded than Palmer was. But I too am a little nervous.
I think we'll be ok but it may take a few games.
I kind of agree with your last part. Until the end of the MD game most of the starters on OL played the entire game. I would have liked to see a little more
playing time for some of the younger guys and said so after viewing the participation charts after some of the games last season.

Mark Duda says Whigan is best player he ever coached

If he is better than Palmer, we will be fine. Palmer was coming on his last year until he was hurt

 

[Kmase21]

Mark Duda says Whigan is best player he ever coached

If he is better than Palmer, we will be fine. Palmer was coming on his last year until he was hurt

He said the same thing about Brisker too.... TIFWIW

 

[rag195]

He said the same thing about Brisker too.... TIFWIW

Maybe I have the guys confused
I know he said it for one of em