MERRILL -- Merrill running back Ross VanDerGeest has rushed for more than 1,600 yards and scored 20 touchdowns this season, and has received the adulation and accolades that goes along with a performance like that.

The Bluejays' offensive linemen? They have received Oreos.

The cookies have been a simple "thank you" from VanDerGeest each Monday after games in which he either scored three touchdowns, rushed for 200 yards, or both.

"I'd be nothing without them," VanDerGeest said Wednesday as the Bluejays continued preparation for Friday's WIAA Division 2 state semifinal matchup with Kimberly. "All the credit goes to them."

The treat from its teammate is all the recognition that the group needs.

"We're happy. We don't need the recognition," senior left guard Ted Porath said. "We just go out and play as hard as we can. We're a tight group and have a lot of chemistry. We just like to go out and hit people and play physical football. That's what we're about.

"Ross is always good about mentioning us (to the media), and things like that. He really appreciates us," Porath added. "We appreciate him, too."

The offensive line consists of 5-foot-11, 300-pound center Matt Haffemann; guards Porath (6-4, 275) and Zach Wendorf (6-4, 215); and tackles Michael Detert (6-1, 270) and Andy Bloch (6-0, 270).

Throw in fullback Jake Schlueter (5-10, 200) and tight end Sam Arneson (6-3, 225) and it's easy to see why the Bluejays offense averaged 384.4 yards a game in the Great Northern Conference.

"We're one of the bigger lines pretty much anywhere (in the state)," said Detert, a senior. "We average probably 260 (pounds) a person, and we just love to hit people and move them off the line."

Merrill coach Tom Tourtillott said it's more than just physical attributes that has led to the line's success.

"They're coached by one of the best offensive line coaches in north central Wisconsin," Tourtillott said. "That's quite a statement because there's some fantastic coaches (in the area), but Greg Schofield just does an incredible job of teaching offensive line play and scheming.

"The kids are able to make an adjustment during the game. If there's something that we see that we didn't prepare for, they know how we need to change that up and what we need to do," Tourtillott added. "The second thing is that their preparation has been impeccable, and when you work hard, good things happen."

Merrill quarterback Pascal Paul is thankful for the group for literally watching his back on the football field and making his job easier in leading the Bluejays' offensive attack.

"They make it way easier," Paul said. "They just play outstanding football. They don't always get the recognition that they deserve, but they are one of the best offensive lines in the state."