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Clemson Football 2017 Redshirt Report: Blake Vinson

By Anthony Messenger

CLEMSON, SC - NOVEMBER 29: The Clemson Tiger mascot greets fans as he enters the stadium prior to their game against the South Carolina Gamecocks at Memorial Stadium on November 29, 2014 in Clemson, South Carolina. (Photo by Tyler Smith/Getty Images)
CLEMSON, SC - NOVEMBER 29: The Clemson Tiger mascot greets fans as he enters the stadium prior to their game against the South Carolina Gamecocks at Memorial Stadium on November 29, 2014 in Clemson, South Carolina. (Photo by Tyler Smith/Getty Images) /
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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, Blake Vinson.

Related Story: 2017 Redshirt Report: Blake Vinson

Blake Vinson (OT) Ocala, Florida:

Under Dabo Swinney, the Clemson football program has had its fair share of playmakers come out of the Sunshine State. Most notably, Sammy Watkins and CJ Spiller.

Vinson may not score touchdowns or run a 40 in the low 4.4s, but, he remains a talented ball player. Clemson offensive line coach, Robbie Caldwell does a phenomenal job of developing talent up front. I expect him to work wonders with Vinson in the future.

Strengths

Standing 6-foot-6, 290 pounds, Blake Vinson is a nimble giant. Similar to Mitch Hyatt and Sean Pollard, Vinson is a lean, athletic tackle. Vinson has a long, compact frame.

Although he is slender, Vinson is a nasty run-blocker. On film, he is constantly playing to the whistle. You love to see all players giving maximum effort, but, you especially like to see that mean streak from your offensive lineman.

Most offensive tackles are lauded for their ability to pass protect, it’s refreshing to see and offensive tackle who likes to fire off of the ball and put a defender on his back.

Expectations in 2018

Clemson football is loaded at offensive tackle. With Mitch Hyatt, Sean Pollard and Tremayne Anchrum returning and 5-star incoming freshman, Jackson Carman enrolled early, depth isn’t an issue.

The Tigers’ quality depth will make it difficult for Vinson to see the field much in 2018. He’s lacking in experience compared to Hyatt, Pollard and Anchrum, which puts him behind the eight ball.

Vinson’s most comparable adversary from an experience standpoint is Carman. Unfortunately, the true freshman may also be the most physically gifted offensive lineman on Clemson’s entire roster in 2018.

Next: SC lacking in blue-chip prospects in 2019 recruiting cycle

Down the road, Vinson has the potential to develop into a solid starter for the Tigers. Right now, he’s stuck behind a host of other talented offensive tackles.

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