Darrell Funk says Michigan offensive line has to be a 'physical, nasty group'

Darrell Funk has been Brady Hoke’s offensive line coach for the past three seasons and followed the new Michigan football coach to Ann Arbor.

Last season at San Diego State, the Aztecs had the 12th-best passing game in the Football Bowl Subdivision and were sixth in the nation in fewest sacks allowed.

Despite that solid pass protection, the ground game still comes first in Funk’s coaching philosophy.

David Molk (50) and Taylor Lewan (77) are two of four offensive linemen with extensive experience that will return for Michigan next season.

AnnArbor.com file photo

“It all starts with running the ball,” Funk said in a video posted by MGoBlue.com as it continues its series introducing Hoke’s coaching staff.

“It doesn’t mean it’s three yards and a cloud of dust and you don’t throw it. But when I’ve been with programs that couldn’t run it, you’re one-dimensional, you’re at a disadvantage.”

Funk will have a veteran line to work with at Michigan. Among the returning players are center David Molk and right guard Patrick Omaneh, who each started all 13 games last season.

Taylor Lewan, who started nine games at left tackle, and Mark Huyge, who had four starts at left tackle and four at right tackle, also return. So does starting tight end Kevin Koger.

Ricky Barnum and Elliott Mealer are expected to lead the competition for the left guard spot vacated by four-year starter Stephen Schilling.

Funk said the success of his unit will go a long way in determining the success of the Wolverines’ offense.

“Our offense will follow the lead of the line,” he said. “If we’re a physical, nasty group and we dictate that we can run the football when we want to and we come off the football, everything else falls into place.”