No. 2 Washington’s ‘nasty’ offensive line out prove West Coast football can out-tough Texas in CFP
Washington offensive tackle Troy Fautanu is ready to silence the critics and prove that West Coast football can be tough enough to win a national championship. The Huskies’ offensive line, dubbed the nasty offensive line, allowed only 11 sacks this season and earned the prestigious Joe Moore Award for the best offensive line in the country. Fautanu is confident that if anyone doubts their toughness, they just need to turn on the tape.
On Monday, in the Sugar Bowl semifinal, Fautanu and his teammates will have the opportunity to prove themselves against No. 3 Texas and their formidable defensive line. Texas boasts All-American T’Vondre Sweat and second-team All-American Byron Murphy II, who are considered to be one of the best sets of tackles in the country.
Both teams are eager to demonstrate their toughness in a matchup that may well swing the game in one direction or another. Fautanu describes the Washington offensive line as chippy, nasty, and they certainly have the credentials to back it up. Their performance this season earned them the Joe Moore Award, an honor typically given to teams with a run-first offense or loaded with future high-round draft picks.
Washington’s offensive line coach, Scott Huff, has molded a group of athletes who excel in blocking in space and seek contact and physicality. They have thrived in their role as protectors of Heisman Trophy runner-up Michael Penix Jr., enabling the Huskies’ offense to produce explosive plays and complete deep passes with impressive frequency.
This offensive line unit consists of Fautanu, left guard Nate Kalepo, right tackle Roger Rosengarten, and center Parker Brailsford. Brailsford, who started the year at guard, moved to center after Matteo Mele suffered a season-ending biceps injury in the second game. The offensive line has experienced changes throughout the season, with Julius Buelow and Geirean Hatchett making starts at right guard, but their cohesion remains strong.
The Joe Moore Award is typically awarded to powerhouse programs like Michigan and Alabama, teams with well-established run-first offenses. However, Washington became the first Pac-12 team to win the award, signifying a shift in the perception of West Coast football and the strength of their offensive line.
ESPN analyst Cole Cubelic, who chairs the Joe Moore Award selection committee, recognizes the relentless effort and consistency displayed by the Washington offensive line. They play with a chip on their shoulders and operate together as a unified unit. Their athleticism, resourcefulness, and hunger for greatness set them apart.
As the Huskies prepare to face off against Texas in the Sugar Bowl, the Washington offensive line aims to demonstrate that West Coast football can be just as tough and physical as any other region. They have the talent, the drive, and the hunger to prove their worth. While the offensive line may not be full of first-round draft picks, they are a united group that plays with grit and determination.
Michael Penix Jr., the star quarterback who has benefited from the offensive line’s protection and time in the pocket, has made sure to express his gratitude. He regularly takes the offensive line out to dinner and rewards them with flight vouchers for a well-deserved getaway.
The showdown between Washington’s offensive line and Texas’ defense line promises to be a compelling battle on the field. It’s an opportunity for the Huskies’ offensive line to prove that West Coast football can be just as physically dominant as any other region. They are eager to showcase their skills and make a statement as they seek to secure a spot in the national championship game.
