Cowboys Succeed At Protection Plan

Lane Taylor (68) and his offensive line pals have kept Cowboys QBs comfortable in the pocket.

Freshman Wes Lunt is sure to carry some anxiety into his transition from high school to college quarterback.

There is, however, reason for comfort.

Over the past five seasons, the Cowboys offensive line has carried out a protection plan that ranks among the best in the country.

Allowing a total of 61 sacks since the beginning of the 2007 season, OSU ranks No. 3 nationally in fewest sacks allowed spanning that five-year stretch. Notable, for sure, considering the Cowboys’ pass-happy ways.

Among the teams ranking in the top five in fewest sacks allowed, three teams are service academies which never eclipsed 380 passes in a season. OSU fired 595 throws last season alone.

The Cowboys have protected Zac Robinson and Brandon Weeden with various of linemen, a testament to line coach Joe Wickline’s work. This season, OSU replaces four 2011 starters — Levy Adcock, Grant Garner, Nick Martinez and Michael Bowie. Still, the Cowboys return four-year regular Lane Taylor, as well as Jonathan Rush, a starter before being lost a year ago to injury. Tackles Parker Graham and Daniel Koenig have played significant snaps, too, leaving only center Evan Epstein in the inexperienced category. And Epstein is a a senior who has waited his turn.