Storrs — An unreliable offensive line swallowed its share of the blame during last year's dismal season.

The Huskies expected sunnier days.

"Having that type of season, it's a downer," offensive guard Tyler Samra said.

One game into this season, there's a clearer and more promising picture for the Huskies and their offensive line, which played a major supporting role in Thursday's 20-15 victory over Villanova.

UConn's offensive front showed it could be counted on late in the fourth quarter with the team clinging to a five-point lead.

Desperately needing a first down, Samra, redshirt junior right tackle Andreas Knappe, redshirt sophomore center Brendan Vechery, redshirt junior left tackle Richard Levy and redshirt sophomore left guard Tommy Hopkins helped the Huskies run out the clock.

"To end the game with a first down and have the opportunity to kill the clock is a special moment for them," coach Bob Diaco during Tuesday's weekly luncheon.

The sight of tailback Ron Johnson fighting his way for a first down on third-and-one with about a minute and a half left to seal the win brought joy to the hearts of the offensive linemen.

"Obviously, that's very important," Samra said. "We had to get a first down to win the game. To have Ron get the ball and just (run) it down field, there's no better feeling than that."

Offensive line play was one of several bright spots against Villanova. The mood is upbeat as UConn prepares for Saturday's game against Army (0-1) at Rentschler Field in East Hartford (noon, CBS Sports Network).

Samra credited hard work and the guidance of strength and conditioning coordinator Mike Balis and offensive line coach Mike Cummings for the unit's growth spurt.

"Everyone is stronger and faster," Samra said. "Coach Balis did a great job with us, working our tails off in the weight room. ... Technique-wise, coach Cummings helped us out tremendously. We're all just working hard just so we can try to win games up front."

The unit helped set a positive tone by powering the Huskies to a touchdown on their opening possession, marching 79 yards in 13 plays. They protected quarterback Bryant Shirreffs, who was sacked just once overall, and opened holes for Johnson.

Trailing by three coming out of halftime, they needed just four plays to cover 75 yards and seize the lead for good and re-establish control of the line of scrimmage.

They should be able to take advantage of their size and strength, averaging about 6-foot-6 and 305 pounds, against Army on Saturday.

Thursday's performance was just the first step for the line. Samra is the unit's only senior and joins Knappe and Levy as returning starters. Vechery earned high praise from Diaco for his play in his first start at center while Hopkins is a first-time starter.

"As a unit, we all did very well," Samra said. "We came a long way from last year. There's still a long way to go. But everyone is improving and everyone is determined to give their best every day in practice so we can improve the offensive line, which was a struggle last year. We all know our role and what we've got to accomplish to make the team win games."

g.keefe@theday.com

Twitter: @GavinKeefe