University of Louisiana at Lafayette Athletics
Louisiana Position Preview: The Trenches
8/20/2022 2:26:00 PM | Football
Ragin’ Cajuns offensive and defensive line anchored by veteran leadership
LAFAYETTE – With many games won and lost in the trenches, Louisiana Football's offensive line and defensive line are up for the challenge of maintaining their reputations as the best not only in the Sun Belt Conference, but in the nation.
Despite the loss of some key pieces up front on offense, including fourth round draft pick Max Mitchell, the Ragin' Cajuns return three familiar faces in A.J. Gillie, David Hudson and Carlos Rubio.
Last season, the trio helped the unit become Joe Moore Award semifinalists for a second consecutive season.
Jax Harrington, Nathan Thomas, Landon Burton, among other newcomers and transfers, will look to contribute this fall.
The offensive line is coached by Jeff Norrid and Bryant Ross.
On the defensive side of the line, look no farther than Zi'Yon Hill-Green, who was named Second Team All-Sun Belt after the 2021 campaign and earned First Team honors ahead of the 2022 season after ranking fifth on the team in tackles (59), second on the team in sacks (6.5) and tied for second in tackles-for-loss (9.5).
Mason Narcisse and Ja-Quane Nelson combined for 36 tackles last season, while Dalvin Hutchinson, Sonny Hazard and others will also compete for playing time as the end of camp nears.
The defensive line is led by first-year assistant coach Dennis Thomas.
Louisiana opens the 2022 season at Cajun Field on Saturday, Sept. 3, when the Ragin' Cajuns host in-state foe Southeastern Louisiana. Kickoff is slated for 6 p.m. and will be broadcast nationally on ESPN+.
Season tickets for the 2022 campaign are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting Account Manager. For more information call the Louisiana Athletics Box Office at the CAJUNDOME at (337) 265-2104.
Fans are encouraged to stay engaged with the Ragin' Cajuns by downloading the #GeauxCajuns app. Click here for iOS/Apple platforms and here for Android platforms.
Follow the Ragin' Cajuns on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram (@RaginCajunsFB) to stay up-to-date on Louisiana Football.
