Clemson Football Newcomers: Matt Bockhorst

With fall camp on the horizon, I wanted to take one last look at Clemson’s 2017 signees. A few of these true freshman may push for playing time this season. Today’s edition features offensive guard, Matt Bockhorst.

Bockhorst is proof of the progress the Clemson football program has made on the recruiting trail as he hails from the state of Ohio. When Dabo Swinney first took over in Death Valley in 2008, the Tigers would have had no shot at landing a prospect from that far North. At 6-foot-5, 305 pounds, Bockhorst is the most physically imposing freshman lineman that the Tigers have in 2017.

Recruitment:

Being from the North East, Bockhorst held offers from just about every Big Ten program, including nearby Ohio State. Despite being from the state of Ohio, Clemson was able to lure Bockhorst to Death Valley. It’s also important to note that Bockhorst held an offer from Penn State, which is where his teammate, four-star 2017 quarterback prospect, Sean Clifford signed. Holding on to his commitment was a bigger feat than securing it in the first place.

Check out Bockhorst’s film here.

More freshman profiles: Jordan Williams

Chances at playing time:

Clemson’s offensive line is one of the most experienced position groups on the roster entering 2017. I can’t see Bockhorst working his way into the starting lineup as a true freshman. That being said, he may provide much-needed depth up front. Starring for St. Xavier high school, Bockhorst proved himself to be a savy blocker with a mean streak. He is a great combo blocker and he is comfortable blocking in space and at the second level.

Bockhorst has impressed the coaches already. Offensive line coach, Robbie Caldwell said the following of Bockhorst in a recent interview with Tigernet.

"Matt Bockhorst will be the next Jay Guillermo as far as entertaining the troops and being the leader. He’s very out-going and a really good player. I think yesterday after workouts he did 225 24 times, so for those who don’t know it’s well over 400 pounds."

Expectations in year one:

Although Bockhorst may be ready to play as a freshman, I do not see him logging any significant snaps in 2017. As I previously mentioned, the Tigers’ depth along the offensive line is too-grave for any of the three freshman to overcome. Taking a redshirt may not happen either. While he will not be pegged as a starter, you can never have too many able bodies up front. Rarely does an entire offensive line remain the same the entire year, injuries are bound to occur at some point.

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Down the road, Bockhorst will be special. He has all of the physical ability, paired with an infectious personality and strong leadership qualities.