NC State’s offensive line, which is known as the “Band of Brothers” has been enforcing its will on opposing teams.
NC State has allowed eight sacks in six games — none the last three — and have powered the way for junior running back Nyheim Hines has tallied at least 100 yards the last three contests.
The offensive line has become a big story-line in helping the Wolfpack start the season 6-1 and be ranked No. 16 overall in The Associated Press poll. NC State has a bye week before returning to action at Notre Dame.
“It is about taking pride and ownership in what you do every day, you know what I mean,” NCSU senior right guard Tony Adams said. “Your job is to protect the quarterback and block for the running backs. The fact that Ryan is clean, it’s the best feeling ever.”
All five starters on the offensive came from the same class of 2014 recruiting class. Adams was the first of the group to get on the field, while the other four redshirted and are currently redshirt juniors. Center Garrett Bradbury was originally recruited at tight end and then tried on the defensive line before settling in on the offensive line.
“I feel like we are really playing well as a unit because I feel that we are all playing for each other,” NCSU left guard Terronne Prescod said. “We aren’t playing for individual accolades. We are playing for each other.
“It’s really impressive to see the class that we all came in with, just to be all out on the field at the same time, putting forth a great effort on the team.”
The offensive line has started to click together and redshirt junior quarterback Ryan Finley is getting the time to spread the wealth.
“We are a lot more cohesive as a group now,” Adams said. “As we worked together and developed through the games this season, we’ve gotten better each and every game.”
Hines has rushed 116 times for 648 yards and six touchdowns, highlighted by a 83-yard touchdown run last week. Hines is second in the ACC behind Louisville quarterback Lamar Jackson, and he is fifth in average rushing yards per game (92.6).
“He is amazing,” Adams said. “He gives credit to us, but you have to give credit to him too. Out of the gate, he’s fast. I’m glad he is on our team.”
Hines is well on pace to reach 1,000 rushing yards, barring injury, which would give NC State a rare feat in its program history. The combination of Matthew Dayes last year and Hines this season, could give the Wolfpack the first back-to-back 1,000-yard rushers since Ted Brown achieved the feat in 1977-1978.
“We are really happy with what he is doing and he has definitely taken it on his shoulders to carry the ball, him and [junior] Reggie [Gallaspy],” Adams said. “They have done a wonderful job.”
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