PISCATAWAY, N.J. — The remarkable contribution of Pat Flaherty to the reconstruction of the Rutgers football offensive line cannot be overstated. As a former NFL offensive line coach who clinched two Super Bowl victories with the New York Giants, Flaherty has executed an exceptional job in reshaping the unit.
Flaherty, in his first season back with Rutgers, has joined a revamped offensive coaching staff. With over twenty years of experience in the NFL, including his accomplishment with the Giants, it is challenging to find an offensive line coach in college football with a comparable pedigree.
The offensive line for Rutgers has been a prominent factor in the overall improvement of their offense this season. Last season, the Rutgers offense was near the bottom of the Big Ten in various statistical categories.
This year they are solidly mid-pack in the conference’s offensive standings and the offensive line deserves credit for their achievements.
“He and his staff, the o-line guys, have done a great job. You know, there’s the experience there. I think that anytime you have a guy with that kind of experience, it’s a calming factor for group,” head coach Greg Schiano said on Wednesday.
“And I think they’re benefiting from all of his experience – and they’re getting better themselves. You know, they’re working very, very hard and they’re getting better. Are we near where we need to be? No, we’re not even close. But we’re a lot better than we were.
“And that’s the key as long as we can keep that trajectory going. We’ll eventually get there…looking forward to the day.”
The improved performance of the offensive line is a significant factor behind Rutgers’ 6-2 (3-2 Big Ten) record and their eligibility for a bowl game. They will face off against the top-ranked Ohio State (8-0, 5-0 Big Ten) on Saturday at 12:00 PM ET (CBS).
The influence of Flaherty undoubtedly plays a vital role in the offensive improvement this year. Additionally, the cohesion and unity displayed by the offensive line as a unit cannot be overlooked.
Compared to last year, there is now a rhythm and precision ingrained in their play. Flaherty deserves recognition for his contributions, as well as the presence of several upperclassmen starters on the line.
The growth of the offensive line can be attributed to the experience gained from the challenges faced in the past two years. This has undoubtedly contributed to Rutgers’ development into a more experienced and skilled unit this season.
“I’ll say it’s a little bit of both. I mean, coach Flats is a great coach coming from the NFL coaching the guys he’s coached,” said sophomore guard Kwabena Asamoah.
“He’s a great offensive mind just to have him give you tidbits and also like the enter o-line just in general, we’ve become a lot closer as a group. You know, every day in practice and the demands – if we have any questions we help each other out, things of that nature.”
Alex Martin is your guide to the global phenomenon of football. With a focus on international leagues and tournaments, he provides match commentary, player interviews, and behind-the-scenes stories from the world of football.
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