Some of SEKY’s Top Returning Offensive Line Prospects
With several of southeastern KY’s top playmakers coming back for encore performances in 2023, it naturally stands to reason that their fortunes largely will rest upon the degree to which their programs can develop cohesive, consistent offensive line units to…
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Continue ReadingWith several of southeastern KY’s top playmakers coming back for encore performances in 2023, it naturally stands to reason that their fortunes largely will rest upon the degree to which their programs can develop cohesive, consistent offensive line units to enable their running backs, receivers and quarterbacks to take full advantage of their returning talent. Thankfully, when it comes to the big fellas up front, this region promises to provide a number of large, strong and experienced blockers to build their units around. Whether opening holes for the running game or fending off some of the state’s most dangerous pass rushers, several of the larger schools here boast a number of offensive linemen who definitely appear primed for the challenges that lie ahead this season.
Taten Brock
Taten Brock
Brock returns after an exceptionally consistent sophomore season as a starting offensive guard in all 11 contests, and after garnering first team all-district honors in 2022, he appears poised to establish himself as one of the top offensive linemen in the region in his upcoming junior campaign. While most impressive when generating a strong push on individual base blocks or executing inside zone schemes, he also exhibits the efficient footwork and athleticism to pull, trap and skip-pull to second level defenders in the misdirection and counter run games. Likewise, his strong inside pass set fits well into his team’s play-action pass packages and a strong, targeted punch helps him maintain inside leverage on most 3-or-4 technique rushers.
Raiyne Cornett
Raiyne Cornett
A big, wide body with the first step and physical attributes to completely cover up first-level defenders, Cornett started exclusively at offensive tackle in 2022 but likely projects more favorably as a guard at the next level. Primarily, his base and zone run blocking prove to be the strengths of his game at present, but he also displays the strength and pad level to push through initial, first-level contact and climb to cut off second-level pursuit–particularly on play side runs. Ideally, as his outside pass set and footwork continue to improve, he also will increase his ability to consistently succeed against loose, edge rushers in obvious passing situations.
Connor Jones
Connor Jones
As a full-time starter at right tackle in 2022, Jones returns to anchor the Eagles’ offensive line and promises to build upon the progressive improvement he demonstrated through his junior season. Versus loosely aligned, edge defenders, he utilizes his long reach and accurate hand placement to negate any speed disadvantages he might face, and he consistently demonstrates the necessary athleticism and effort to release underneath first-level defenders and run levels to cut off backside pursuit in the run game. Perhaps most impressively, however, he displays the consistent footwork and target placement on play side runs which enable him to cover up the ball side of defenders, effectively cutting off their pursuit angles and enabling ball carriers to reach the second/third levels of defenses relatively untouched.
Jacob Shoemaker
Jacob Shoemaker
A mainstay at the left tackle position for the Black Bears, Shoemaker started 10 games in 2022 and proved to be a large reason that his “run first” and “run second” offensive unit averaged over 5.5 yards per carry for the season. Coupled with his sheer size and strength, his hip flexibility enables him to fit under most first level defenders and generate overwhelming push, and even when climbing to second level defenders, he consistently maintains the physical demeaner (wide base, knees over toes and hands inside) to not only strike his intended target, but also to remain engaged and finish through the whistle. An exceptionally strong, experienced multi-year starter, Shoemaker seems poised to establish himself as one of the top offensive linemen in the region.
Nate Taylor
Nate Taylor
As a sophomore starter at left guard, Taylor proved himself equally adept as both a run and pass blocker for an offense that averaged over 300 yards per game while maintaining a 50-50 run-pass ratio. As a run blocker, his efficient footwork and low hip/pad level enable him to generate consistent push in the run game–even against first-level defenders with considerable size advantages. Likewise, his understanding of leverage and targeted blow delivery make him very reliable in pass protection schemes, whether executing play-action looks, drop-back schemes or rolling the launch point to either perimeter. Another year of maturity bodes well for the development of this fundamentally sound performer and two-way starter in 2023 and beyond.