By Adam Studzinski

NORMAL – It’s not an easy task replacing two players who accounted for the majority of your offense over a two year period.

That’s the job Illinois State football coaches have been facing as they prepare for the 2016 season. The task is made much easier when you have all five starting offensive linemen returning, according to co-offensive coordinator Dan Clark.

“They’ve got some work to do,” said Clark. “But when you’ve got the trenches – the guys that handle the trenches – you’ve got that secure, then you feel good about protecting a new quarterback and opening holes for a new running back.”

The bulk of Clark’s duties will be working with the ISU linemen, as he and fellow co-offensive coordinator Billy Dicken take the reins of what’s been a high powered Redbird offense the past two years. Clark said he’s “ecstatic” to have all five starters back.

“These five guys have been through it all,” said Clark. “They epitomize what Illinois State offensive linemen are in their work ethic and what they bring to the team. They’re hardnosed, tough, smart, and they love football.”

Clark has been spending the off-season focusing on his linemen’s weaknesses, while building on their strengths.

“Little different techniques, combination blocks, whatever it might be. Really getting into the film room and studying themselves and being critical on themselves,” he said.

The Redbirds begin their quest for a third straight FCS playoff appearance on Sep. 3 at home versus Valparaiso.

Adam Studzinski can be reached at [email protected].