GREENSBORO, August 5, 2007 -- Even with the talent assembled at the skill positions on offense, the Aggies success rate will largely depend on how well their offensive line plays this season. Offensive line coach Kenneth Ray has put a “no-excuse” moniker on his unit this season. A year ago, the unit was largely made up of first-time starters. This season the line is made up of four returning starters and one player who started in 2005.

 “There are no more excuses as long as we beat the injury bug. We have experience. With the transfer backs we signed, there is no reason we shouldn’t be able to control the line of scrimmage. I tell these guys, we want to get four yards every play. If we do that, we put ourselves in a lot of 3rd-and-2 situations.”

 Chad Wiley and Juan Williams are expected to man the tackle positions. Wiley graded out well in his pass blocking duties last season, so Ray put him in charge of protecting the quarterback’s backside this season at the left tackle position. Williams, who sat out last season, will move from the interior of the line to the outside at right tackle. Ray wants to utilize his athleticism and strength to stop pass rushers.

"We were really disappointed when he didn’t make it academically,’’ said Ray. "He is the kind of offensive lineman you love because he is so versatile. He’s played all five positions and that’s big in terms of helping your depth.”

 Right guard Andrew Sagote’ utilizes his strength to drive defenders off the ball. The hope is he can become a more complete lineman this season to give the Aggies the option of doing more screens and pulling plays. Center Tim Bess is the anchor of the offensive line. Ray said he is excellent at spotting blitzes and make the right calls at the line. His snaps to the quarterback last season were flawless.

 The Aggies signed four offensive linemen during the off-season with the hope of not having to press them into action too early as they learn behind last season’s starters. But Ray realizes injuries are a possibility, so the thought of having to play the freshmen is in his mind. However, he believes the freshmen are talented enough to push for playing time this season.