By: Nolan Alexander
KENNESAW, Ga. – Two phrases synonymous with Kennesaw State football are the "Gold Standard" and "E.A.T. (Effort. Attitude. Toughness)". If you're looking to find the #GoldStandard of E.A.T., then look no further than the men up front.
"We ask them to play very, very hard. The culture of our program is summed up with effort, attitude and toughness. That is absolutely what we want to be as an offensive line," said offensive coordinator and offensive line coach Grant Chesnut. "What makes playing offensive line at KSU so unique is that our guys must be athletic enough not only to block defensive lineman, but also block linebackers and third-level defenders. We expect them to do that on every play."
The unit is ready to run it back, literally, this spring after leading the country in rushing yards at 342.4 yards per contest and an average of 6.3 yards per rush.
Tackle Jake Lassiter was named All-Big South Conference first team after transferring from Coffeyville Community College.
"His understanding of concepts, our offense and offensive line play has been the most improved aspect," said tackles coach Stewart Cook. "He is athletic, has a great output, a high motor and there is no roller coaster with him. You see the same output from him at practice every day."
Zion Katina made nine starts in his first full fall, including the final six of the 2019 season.
"Zion has come into his own this spring camp. He has been very consistent in stacking his days fundamentally. He has elevated his play and his understanding of the offense," said Cook. "He's playing with a lot of confidence and is incredibly athletic for his size. To see him confident and thriving is very encouraging."
Sean Brown saw action in eight games and made five starts.
"He works his tail off and is a mainstay as far as toughness in the offensive line. That is invaluable. He's done a great job of understanding steps, angles and pad level this camp," said Cook.
Savon Simmons, Devin Floyd, and Darron Willis are in the mix for action at tackle as well.
Guard Chris Dye joined Lassiter on the All-Big South Conference first team after making 10 starts as a junior.
"I've seen some leadership from him, which is encouraging. He's a senior, he gets it, and played very well down the stretch last season in the playoffs," said Chesnut.
Fellow guard Terrell Paxton started 12 games and the final nine of KSU's 2019 campaign. For as much dominance as he's shown on the line of scrimmage, the Stone Mountain native offers intangible assets to the offense.
"He's incredibly resilient and has a lot of grit and character. I have a lot of respect for Terrell as a man. He's an outstanding person," said Chesnut.
William Nana Fabu was an anchor to the offense last season by starting all 14 games at center.
"He started out as a walk-on and has grown into a starter for us. He has the ability to become a young man that is recognized for postseason honors and things like that," said Chesnut. "Most importantly, he is a linchpin for the offensive line who controls so much. He is emerging in his leadership."
Dominick Knowles also gained notoriety from Chesnut for his improvement through the offseason, and the versatile Matt Olson, Antwann Fann and Zach Thompson all hold key roles to the success of the offensive line.
Chesnut is high on the futures of the roster's freshmen. James Dawson, Trenton Jackson, Ross Helton, and Will Pieroni have made strides as they learn the demands of being an Owl lineman.
Kennesaw State begins its spring schedule at home Feb. 27 against Shorter University. Tickets are available by clicking here.
