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Clemson Football Newcomers: Blake Vinson

By Anthony Messenger

AUBURN, AL - SEPTEMBER 03: The Clemson Tigers mascot looks on prior to the game between the Auburn Tigers and the Clemson Tigers at Jordan Hare Stadium on September 3, 2016 in Auburn, Alabama. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
AUBURN, AL - SEPTEMBER 03: The Clemson Tigers mascot looks on prior to the game between the Auburn Tigers and the Clemson Tigers at Jordan Hare Stadium on September 3, 2016 in Auburn, Alabama. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /
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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 tackle, Blake Vinson.

The Clemson football program reached into Florida once again, but, this time it wasn’t for a speedy reciever. This time around, the Tigers went in search of an offensive tackle and found one in 6-foot-5, 295 pound, Blake Vinson of North Marion high school.

Recruitment:

Vinson’s three star rating coming out of high school is a bit miss leading. Yes Vinson can stand to build more strength and develop his long frame, however, the talent is clearly there. The Florida native held over 23 scholarship offers from programs such as, Alabama, Georgia and Penn State.

Vinson committed to Clemson in January of 2016, nearly a year before he would sign his National Letter of Intent.

View Vinson’s film here.

More freshman profiles: Matt Bockhorst

Chances at playing time:

Unfortunately for Vinson, Clemson has exceptional depth at offensive tackle. His chances at playing as a true freshman are inevitably going to be slim due to the talent ahead of him on the depth chart. The Tigers have bookend left tackle, Mitch Hyatt coiming into his 3rd year as a starter and rising sophomore’s Sean Pollard and Tremayne Anchrum battling for the right tackle job.

Vinson could potentially fill at either tackle should the Tigers get bit by the injury bug. Outside of that, Vinson will likely redshirt in 2017.

Expectations in year one:

I don’t expect Vinson to play in 2017, however, he will factor heavily into the future of the Clemson football program. The Tigers have consistently had one of the most lethal aerial attacks in the country, however, they have struggled to get those tough yards on the ground. With Blake Vinson in the fold, that will change. Offensive tackles are coveted for their ability to protect the passer, but, Vinson is a mauling run blocker. He does a great job of running his feet after making contact with a defender.

Next: How good can Clemson be without Deshaun Watson?

Vinson and fellow 2017 signee’s Matt Bockhorst and Noah DeHond will usher in a new, more physical identity along the offensive line. The Tigers have always been able to put up points, however, with these three in the program they will be able to control the tempo of the game by running the ball.

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