While the Auburn Tigers offensive line is losing Greg Robinson to the NFL Draft, the line is still one of the most experienced units on the team.
Senior center Reese Dismukes anchors the line with experience, with this upcoming season being his fourth consecutive year starting at center.
"It's good having so many guys back, especially that started last year," Dismukes said. "We have been able to go out there and know what's going on and really just perfect techniques and work on getting better and gelling every day."
With a line that is so familiar with each other, it shouldn't be a difficult task to form a cohesive unit.
Sophomore Avery Young is expected to start at the right tackle position, with junior Patrick Miller and sophomore Shon Coleman battling for the left tackle job.
After missing three seasons due to his diagnosis with Leukemia in 2010, Coleman has put on some weight and has impressed teammates with his strength.
"If you ever thought Greg (Robinson) was strong, you've got another thing coming," said defensive tackle Gabe Wright. "Shon is probably two times stronger than Greg."
Miller, a 6-foot-7, 289-pound junior started the first five games last season, before losing his starting job to Young. With Robinson's departure, Miller will be looking to use his massive frame to his advantage to earn a spot on the line.
After taking Miller's starting job last season, Young made himself a valuable asset to the line, becoming a permanent fixture for the Tigers offensive line for the remainder of the 2013 season.
The Tigers also return three guards with experience.
Sophomore Alex Kozan started last season for the Tigers at left guard, with junior Devonte Danzey backing him up.
"(We) have definitely improved this spring," Kozan said. "Overall as a unit, I think we've got a lot of depth, as much as anyone in the nation."
At right guard, senior Chad Slade will look to continue his role as a fixture on the offensive line, having started 36 games for the Tigers.
As the Tigers look to protect their quarterback and open up lanes for the running game, this group of experienced veterans will look to take the extra step and help bring home the title this season.
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