Budwig out , Who’s In?

Peter Holland Jr./ Contributing Writer

The Panthers took a huge blow at offensive line when two year starter Jordan Budwig had season ending surgery on his shoulder, leaving the left guard position wide open. The 6’4 324 lbs Junior out of Fort Lauderdale injured his right shoulder during off-season workouts, leaving the front five without their leading anchor. Now who is looking to step up to replace Budwig who started  24 total games in two season

Last Sunday the Panthers had their scrimmage and the evaluation came mostly on the offensive line. Ever since Budwig went down, the Coaches were shuffling positions just to see who they have. For example Senior Aaron Nielson went from right tackle to center back to right tackle and redshirt freshmen Chris Miller stepped in at center. “The line been progressing well, we got a lot of young talent,” Head Coach Ron Turner said. Also according to Coach Turner, Michael Montero is projected to step in to replace Jordan Budwig. The 6’2 299 pounds former walk-on  spent most of his time playing center.

The dehis of the Offensive line will be put the test this coming season protecting their starting QB Alex McGough. Despite losing their anchor, McGough still have confidence in his line. “Its unfortunate to lose  a guy like Budwig, but its next man up,” said McGough. At least on a positive note on the offensive line are versatile and can play multiple positions.

First game is September 3rd against UCF Golden Knights at Orlando at seven.