Player comparison

Taran Tyo

Dean Kindig

"TIE-oh". The interior line had trouble vs Dontay Corleone in the scouted game. Started all 13 games at right guard, ranking seventh in the Big 12 among guards in PFF. Part of a unit that was a semifinalist for the Joe Moore Award as best offensive line in the nation. Maybe the most proven line in the conference. Made PFF's National Team of the Week following the blowout at Oklahoma State, earning a 78.3 grade that ranked second among all guards. Unit was also a three-time Big 12 Offensive Line of the Week and second nationally (one off the lead) with only eight sacks allowed in the 13 games. Prior to Cincinnati. 2024 Third-Team All-MAC selection at Ball State. Part of an offensive line that provided pass protection for the second-ranked passing attack in the MAC (245.0). Started 11 games in 2024 at right tackle.

Lance Heard

Dean Kindig

Played all 73 snaps at LT as Tennessee rolled up an SEC season-high 281 rushing yards and 538 yards of total offense in a road win at Vanderbilt. Now the tone-setter at Kentucky. Heavy and powerful hands. Practice matchup with Deone Walker. The only returning starter on Tennessee's offensive line this year, Zalance Heard is an impressive five-star OT who transferred to Tennessee after an SEC All-Freshman season at LSU in 2023. His combination of size and athleticism was on full display in the spring as he took control of left tackle for the Vols. Considered the second-highest rated offensive tackle prospect during the 2023 transfer portal cycle. Signed with LSU as a member of the Class of 2023 before committing and signing with Tennessee in January 2024. Played in 22 career games (12 at LSU, 10 at UT) and has made 11 starts (1 at LSU, 10 at UT). Never played with Deone Walker or Maxwell Hairston at Kentucky (in 2024 and 2025 played for Tennessee).