Moorhead, Minn.-- Horan's take on the offensive line: "We have three of our five starting linemen back so this will enable the offense to continue to play at a very high level."

Despite Horan's optimism, the two graduating linemen will be a very tough task to tackle. Didier, a three-year starter, finished his career by being the most decorated lineman in the history of the program. He was named the league's top lineman and participated in the Aztec Bowl, the annual DIII All-Star game. To make matters worse, Didier was the team's starting left tackle, which meant he protected the quarterback's blindside on any passing plays. Filling that key position will be key for a stable passing attack and a healthy Schumacher. Jason Kelly was the other starter lost to graduation. His physical presence at right guard helped the Cobbers finish second in the league in rushing last season.

The reason for Horan's excitement is that he has a trio of lineman returning who understand the complex offense and are able to fire off the ball and open huge holes for the Cobber running game. David Uselman, Ryan Johnson and Matt McCallum all return in 2005. Uselman and Johnson earned all-conference honors and McCallum will be aided by a year of seasoning after transferring to Concordia from Concordia-St. Paul last year. Uselman, the team's biggest linemen at 335 lbs. last year, was a first team all-conference selection last year and is very solid as the team's starting center. Johnson is a three-year starter who has tremendous footwork and rarely gets beat off the ball on any play. He was named to the all-conference honorable mention team last year.

The list of replacements for Didier begins with Kris Peterson and Grant Weller. Peterson and his massive 6-4, 275 frame will be an imposing figure on the left side. Weller is just as impressive at 6-5 and 270 and both will have the opportunity to step in and see action right away.

Leading the way at the guard position is Josh Linman, who transferred to Concordia last year from Fergus Falls Community College. After taking the first part of the season to learn the offense, he turned into one of the top linemen at the end of the year.

Others to watch for on the offensive line: Mike Burke, Zach Eidelbes, Scott Halupczok, Brent Mahn, Ryan Mason, Justin Parks and David Trembath.