Miami Football: Five things to watch in the first scrimmage
The offensive line
The offensive line was the biggest concern during spring practice. Richt and Offensive Line Coach Stacy Searles had to constantly shuffle linemen around during Spring Practice before settling on the five that have remained the first string.
As it stands now center Tyler Gauthier is the only returning starter playing the same position that he did in 2017. Gauthier is one of the best centers in the country. He is on the watch lists for the Rimington and Outland Trophies. The Rimington is awarded to the best center in college football. The Outland is for the best interior lineman.
Tyree St. Louis started 21 games at right tackle for the Miami football team the last two seasons. St. Louis is moving from right to left tackle for the 2018 season. Speaking to HurricaneSports.Com the official Miami Athletic website, St. Louis discussed what it meant to get back on the Greentree Practice Field last Saturday.
"“It feels amazing, especially with things like the summer [workouts], spring ball and the mat drill workouts, it feels good to come out here and get ready for a real season. Putting the helmet back on, we’re putting pads on in a few days – it feels really good to get actual work.”"
Navaughn Donaldson is the third returning starter on the Miami offensive line. Donaldson was a True Freshman All-American at right guard last season. He is moving into St. Louis’ starting spot at right tackle this season.
The guards are much bigger unknowns. Hayden Mahoney and Jahair Jones are currently playing with the first-team offense at guard. They have two career starts between them, both by Mahoney.
Jones has only played in ten games during his two seasons of eligibility with the Miami football team. Nine of those came last season. Most of Jones’ playing time has come on special teams.
Graduate Transfer Venzell Boulware from Tennessee will have two seasons of eligibility remaining with Miami. He is likely to challenge Mahoney and Jones for a starting job. Boulware played seven games with the Volunteers in 2016, making three starts.