Offensive lineman for Texas A&M football named to Outland Trophy preseason watchlist

Texas A&M football OL Chase Bisontis named to Outland Trophy preseason watchlist

Over the last two years, the offensive line play has been a big sore spot for Texas A&M football fans. After the near-impeccable play of the offensive front in 2020, things took a half-step backwards in 2021, before completely falling off in 2022.

2023 was better, if only by a little bit. While the unit still lacked cohesion in a lot of ways, the Aggies were able to run the ball better, and pass protection seemed at least marginally improved.

Part of that is having more health up front, like with Trey Zuhn. But one of the brightest spots was newcomer Chase Bisontis. Even that in itself is impressive, given that he was playing out of position for the entire year.

Bisontis was one of the most highly-prized recruits from the 2023 cycle, and he showed his stuff. Starting at tackle as a freshman in the SEC is no joke, but Bisontis acquitted himself well, relatively speaking. That’s not to say there weren’t trouble spots over the course of the year, but he provided a lot of reason for hope, especially if the Aggies would be able to work him back into his natural position.

That positive outlook is beginning to be widely acknowledged, as Bisontis was today named to the Outland Trophy preseason watchlist.

Getting Bisontis back to guard will be a huge boon to his candidacy for awards like these. I think we see a huge improvement from the Aggie OL from year one to year two. Let’s not underrate the effect that improved coaching will have, either. Bisontis has the chance to have a huge year, and this is a harbinger of exactly that outcome.