Grizzly Football Preview – Offensive Guard

Yesterday, I kicked off my 15-part Montana Grizzlies football preview by talking about this year's group of offensive tackles.

Today, we'll slide inside to dissect the offensive guards. Unlike the offensive tackles, the guards' main focus is usually run blocking. In coach Robin Pflugrad's offense, the guards must be agile and light on their feet also.

Here's a look at what the Griz have at guard:

Jake Hendrickson, Sr.
Kyle Kmet, Jr.
Danny Kistler, So.
William Poehls, So.
Shawn Bradshaw, Fr.
Samson Kaleikini, Fr.
Christian Licciardi, Fr.

                                                                                                                                                                                                      RETURNING STARTERS: 0

PLAYER TO WATCH: Danny Kistler

SLEEPER: Jake Hendrickson

FUTURE STAR: Shawn Bradshaw

Unlike the offensive tackles, there are no returning starters to this years' team. Senior Stephen Sabin started at left guard last season, but made the move to center. Likewise, sophomore Danny Kistler saw action at offensive tackle last year, although he didn't make any starts. Both he and fellow classmate William Poehls are projected to start at left and right guard, respectively. Both players are actually offensive tackles and could move out as their careers progress, but for now they fit the philosophy of getting the five best offensive linemen on the field.

However, those two starting spots are not set in stone, as senior Jake Hendrickson could make a strong push for either guard position. Junior Kyle Kmet and former Sentinel Spartan Shawn Bradshaw are currently listed as third-stringers, while true freshmen Samson Kaleikini and Christian Licciardi will likely redshirt this season.