Penn State’s first-team offensive line could have entered 2019 with a combined 126 starts to its name. Instead, Matt Limegrover’s unit will take on a rigorous Big Ten slate with two fresh faces — and 68 fewer starts — filling in for a pair of stalwarts.
Connor McGovern and Ryan Bates are gone. McGovern, Mel Kiper Jr.’s No. 2-rated guard, declared early for the 2019 NFL draft after the Citrus Bowl. Bates, a voice on Penn State’s leadership council for three years, unexpectedly followed suit.
When spring camp begins March 13, Limegrover’s evaluation process begins. He is tasked with replacing a duo that’s helped anchor the line for the last three seasons.