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2015 Season Review
A redshirt junior out of Cleveland, Ohio, Tyler Orlosky had himself quite a year in 2015. He was named a team captain. He was named to the All Big 12 First Team by ESPN.com and the All Big 12 Second Team by the Coaches Poll. He started all 13 games for the second straight year and now has 29 starts over 37 games in his career. He helped pave the way for an offense that averaged nearly 480 yards per game, including 228 yards per game on the ground.
Orlosky, standing at 6'-4" and weighing close to 300 pounds has good size. He and Skyler Howard worked hard to develop the necessary rapport between a center and quarterback. Tyler even earned Offensive Player of the Week from the coaches for his work against Liberty. It was the second time in his career he won the award. He previously won it in 2014 against Texas Tech.
Tyler even flirted with NFL scouts following the 2015 season. Using the ability to receive a draft grade without the repurcussions of having to leave school, Tyler sought the advice of NFL scouts. He received a "stay in school" grade, which he expected. Scouts pointed out one technique flaw they suggested he correct.
2016 Outlook
While Cajuste may be WVU's most talented lineman, Tyler Orlosky is currently the most heralded lineman at WVU. Having already been named to the Riminington Award Watch List, Tyler was recently named to the Outland Trophy Watch List, giving annually to the best collegiate offensive lineman (guard, center or tackle).
Tyler enters 2016 as one of the most experienced linemen in the Big 12. He is only one of two returning all-conference lineman and is the only returning lineman who ranked in the top 25 by the Schneider Scale.
With Rushel Shell set to be the presumed starting running back, the middle of the offensive line is going to need to open holes to allow Shell's straightforward running style to gain steam. Tyler will help anchor the line and set the tone for the new and improved Ground Raid Mountaineers.