(08-12-2015 09:16 AM)EagleSam Wrote: (08-12-2015 07:55 AM)EMU03 Wrote: Here is who took first team reps on Oline (all juniors)
LT Gardner
LG Thornton
C Hurcombe
RG Terrell
RT Wylie
It will be interesting to see if any of the redshirt freshmen push for any of these spots. I'm a little surprised Gardner is already at LT protecting Bell's blindside after moving from tight end where he didn't have to pass block.
Some great tackles were former tight ends. Jason Peters comes to mind. Not comparing Gardner to peters, but if he doesn't lose much quickness with his weight gain, then he could be a pleasant surprise at LT.
And how about the #1 NFL draft choice from a couple years ago, Fisher, from CMU. Wasn't he a TE recruit?
The obvious thing about TEs who move to tackle is that they have speed and agility advantages over most other OTs.
As Sam indicates, if Gardner gained some good weight and maintained most of the speed, agility, etc. then he could be a fine OT.
I think CC likes those kind of athletes, i.e., h.s. recruits who are good athletes and can grow into a position, but don't know the position until the player's career unfolds... Maybe a 6' 2", 212 lbs player who might be a TE or might be a LB or maybe ?, etc.
I think CC believes if a h.s. player has God-given agility, quicks, frame, etc. he and the S&C staff can do the rest. That can be determined from the summer camps.
The one thing which is TBD, is the heart and willingness to do what is necessary to be what the recruit is NOT now.