DRILLS, SKILLS, & CHARACTER: FOUNDATIONS OF THE O-LINE

\"Skill guys come with me, linemen - go with coach.\" Translation: Fast athletic guys that get to touch the ball get on the field and play catch - husky, slow kids go drive the 800 pound sled a mile or two. Anyone who has played football is familiar with this scenario. Especially those privileged enough to play on the offensive line. The group of young men that play offensive line are used to hearing these expressions. They have grown accustomed to not touching the ball, not getting their name in the paper and not receiving a lot of press time or limelight for their efforts. It is for this reason that personal character is the single most important trait for an offensive lineman to possess. Speed and strength are great assets and developing those skills is critical, but all things being equal, young men with strong character will become better offensive linemen and help their team more