By Andrew Hornback
The departure of two-time All Big East center Eric Wood to the NFL in April left a void in the Cardinals’ offensive line.
Wood, who was constantly praised by his teammates for his work ethic and film-studying habits, began to mentor then-freshman Mario Benavides last season, sensing that the young center would eventually replace him.
“He taught me a lot, about how it important film watching is, and simple things that can make a big difference,” Benavides said.
Benavides, now a redshirt freshman who has started all season at center for the Cards, is part of an offensive line that had struggled at times early in the season. But they are constantly looking to improve and better protect the quarterback.
“We could have done some things better, but there were times when we blocked real well,” Benavides said. “Experience should help us, and we will look to get better every game.”
Following the 35-10 loss to Pittsburgh on Friday, the Cards became tied for the most sacks allowed in the Big East this season. Benavides believes that is something that can improve as well.
“[Pittsburgh] had a really solid defensive line, but it is our job to protect Adam [Froman] and give him time to make plays,” Benavides said. “We can do better than we have been and will just continue to push ourselves.”
Pushing himself to succeed is something that Benavides also learned from Wood.
“It really helped me last year, being around him,” Benavides said. “He was such a great person to work with for me. It really helped me to have someone that is such a great teacher help me learn and get better.”
Benavides and the Cards will face another challenge Saturday against Southern Mississippi, who leads Conference USA in rushing defense at 95.8 yards per game, as well as sacks per game at three per contest.
