It is ironic, that with a large mass between them, offensive lineman are rarely noticed on the field. The only time people speak upon the O-line is when a mistake occurs.

The Peoria Panthers' O-line has changed that feeling as it has been the backbone of the offensive success during the 2017 season.  

It has continued throughout the season with the offense averaging 382.4 total yards per game and 40.2 points.

Peoria coach William Babb said his team's success on offense revolves around the guys in the trenches. Success is expected for the offensive line as it has some of the larger players on the field.

“The biggest thing is, they have embraced their role,” Babb said. “As a team, we know they are doing a great job.”

The Panthers' O-line features 10 seniors and a strong bond between them.

“We have good communication, and when the defense works hard (in practice) it helps us prepare weekly for our games,” senior offensive tackle Matt Kohnert said.

This group of linemen have continued to play well together and combine to use their minds as one.

“It helps when we all communicate together, and work together as an offensive line,” senior offensive tackle Tomas Gutierrez said. “First rule in everything - work together and get it done.”

Babb said how his O-line has been undersized the past few weeks. Peoria has recently faced larger opponents in Buckeye and Marcos de Niza high schools.

“They feel that they have something to prove every week,” Babb said. “There’s a challenge every single week, and I think they thrive on that opportunity.”

Peoria’s offense has two of the most electric running backs in the 4A conference with junior Juwaun Price and senior Sonatane Zabala. The backs have combined for 16 rushing touchdowns and have accounted for 965 rushing yards.

“It makes us feel good, we might not get all the attention, but they told us themselves that without us they wouldn’t be anything either,” senior center Andres Delgado said.

The skill players may get all the love in the end, but without the dirty work up front there is no success as an offense.

“Offensive line does all the dirty work, so they (skill players) get all the fame,” Gutierrez said. “We are the ugly kids; they are the pretty boys. We do all the dirty work.”