Throughout the offseason, Rubbing The Rock will be taking a look at the members of Clemson football’s 2017 recruiting class who redshirted last fall. Today we’ll be examining offensive lineman, Matt Bockhorst.
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Matt Bockhorst (OG) Cincinnati, Ohio:
Clemson football battled Midwest powers such as, Ohio State, Notre Dame and Michigan to land Matt Bockhorst.
Playing for St. Xavier – one of the top high school football programs in the nation – benefitted Bockhorst greatly coming into Death Valley. He was groomed in a championship program and understands the expectations that come with a high level of success.
With Tyrone Crowder and Taylor Hearn moving on to the NFL, Bockhorst will get a chance to throw his hat in the ring for a starting spot at guard this offseason.
Strengths
Bockhorst is a hard-nosed, mauling run blocker. Not only will he help replace Crowder and Hearn from a sheer numbers standpoint, but also from an attitude perspective.
At 6-foot-3, 305 pounds Bockhorst certainly looked the part upon stepping foot in Death Valley. That being said, it’s much harder to come in and make an immediate impact in the trenches, than say running back or defensive back.
Bockhorst finishes blocks well and does a good job of maintaining good leverage and hand placement. With a year to develop both mentally and physically, he’ll be ready to provide quality depth for the Tigers along the offensive line.
Expectations in 2018
I expect Bockhorst to compete for a starting job in 2018. Of the offensive lineman the Tigers were able to sign in the 2017 recruiting class, Bockhorst is the most ready to play right now.
Pair that with Clemson’s holes up-front and you’ve got yourself an early opportunity at playing time.
At the least, look for Bockhorst to be apart of Clemson’s rotation of offensive lineman. Robbie Caldwell has shown in the past that he’s not afraid to shake up the depth chart, when need-be.
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Guys like, John Simpson, Tremayne Anchrum and potentially, Jackson Carman should factor into the competition at guard as well.