From Solid to Dominant: OL Coach TJ Woods’ Blueprint for Elevating the Cougars’ Offensive Line in 2025

When TJ Woods took over as the offensive line coach for the Cougars, he inherited a unit that was solid but far from dominant. While the group had shown flashes of brilliance, inconsistency and a lack of depth had prevented them from truly excelling. Now, heading into the 2025 season, Woods has a clear vision: transform the Cougars’ offensive line from a serviceable unit into a powerhouse that controls the line of scrimmage.

Emphasizing Physicality and Technique

One of Woods’ core philosophies is building a physically dominant offensive line. Strength, conditioning, and functional mobility have been key focal points in the offseason. Woods has implemented an intense strength program designed to increase explosiveness, leverage, and endurance. But raw strength alone isn’t enough—technique plays an equally important role.

Under Woods, the offensive linemen have been drilled relentlessly on proper hand placement, footwork, and pad level. Small details, such as maintaining balance in pass protection or getting the correct angle in run blocking, can be the difference between a good offensive line and a great one. Woods demands discipline, ensuring that every rep in practice is executed with precision.

Developing Depth and Versatility

A major issue for the Cougars in previous seasons was a lack of depth along the offensive line. Injuries or fatigue often forced inexperienced players into action, disrupting the team’s rhythm. Woods has made it a priority to build a deeper unit by cross-training players at multiple positions.

Guards are learning to play center, tackles are taking snaps at guard, and younger players are being developed early to ensure they are game-ready when needed. This approach not only strengthens the team’s overall depth but also allows Woods to rotate fresh legs into the game without a drop-off in performance.

Improving Communication and Chemistry

Offensive line play is about more than just individual talent—it’s about cohesion. A well-coordinated line that communicates effectively can neutralize even the most aggressive defenses. Woods has emphasized the importance of communication, both pre-snap and during plays, ensuring that the linemen are always on the same page.

To build chemistry, the offensive line spends extra time together both on and off the field. Whether it’s film study sessions, extra practice reps, or bonding activities outside of football, Woods understands that a tight-knit unit translates to better performance on Saturdays.

Adapting to the Offensive Scheme

The Cougars’ offensive success depends heavily on the line’s ability to execute the scheme. Whether it’s a power-running attack, a zone-blocking system, or a pass-heavy approach, Woods has tailored his coaching to ensure the line fits the system perfectly.

In 2025, expect to see a more aggressive, technically sound unit that can open lanes for the running game while providing elite protection for the quarterback. With Woods’ leadership, the Cougars’ offensive line is poised to go from solid to dominant—making them a key factor in the team’s success.