This season’s core of offensive heavyweights is arguably the weakest position group on Baylor’s 104-man roster. Because the majority of Baylor’s O-linemen are young, protecting the QB and ball carrier has been their season-long struggle. Following in the shadows of one of the most successful and dominant lines in Baylor history, the 2016 group lacks experience, but not talent.
C Kyle Fuller entered the season with 39 games played and 26 starts- far better stats than most on the team. The senior helped Baylor earn their back-to-back Big 12 championships and is the glue in this fresh core. LT Dominic Desouza is a junior JUCO transfer from City College of San Francisco. Desouza redshirted his first season at Baylor to retain eligibility and (although he’s no Spencer Drango) has performed well under pressure in his first starting season. Ishmael Wilson is listed at starting LG after transferring from Texas A&M and not seeing much playing time the past two seasons. Wilson is a massive presence and makes his fury known when he’s protecting his QB. Blake Blackmar has more experience as RG than most of the line, but he’s struggled with penalties throughout the season. Blackmar’s blocks aren’t as efficient as the others, which makes it difficult for the QB to pass the ball. RT Patrick Lawrence played every game of the 2015 season and has contributed greatly to the offense’s minor success even with a few penalties here and there. The rest of the line consists of Mo Porter, Sean Muir, Jim Threet, Daniel Russell, Dalton Justice, Michael Coffey, Tanner Thrift, Harrison Fox, Keith Orcutt and Tyrae Simmons.
