This 6’5″ Carlson offensive lineman was a man on a mission Sunday afternoon. Sam looked every bit the part during the testing portion of the camp on Sunday. Sam showed excellent feet for a player his size and incredible balance during the one on one battles. I was also impressed with sam’s ability to get out of his stance show a good stab then explode to the second level. I would guess sam’s stock continues to rise as summer camps get into full swing.

Sam is another offensive tackle that I expect to earn a spike in college interest this spring.

I watched Sam closely against Dexter, and came away happy with his performance. I always want to see how an offensive lineman moves, and I’m happy to report that Sam is a little faster than most tackles his size. He’s a fit player and does not struggle with major fatigue or slowdowns as some tackles do.

I still think Sam can improve his footwork, as well as his bend and balance, especially when pass blocking. Still, if a defender crosses Sam’s path, he does a great job engaging and quickly finishing the block. I’d be shocked if Sam doesn’t earn recruiting attention this spring.

What a nightmare assignment to line up across from Sam all night. He’s nasty and physical and is constantly looking for the finish. Specifically in the run game, he is able to find ways to win reps and take defenders completely out of the play.

-Big and physically imposing. Able to use leverage to seal off the hole and open up lanes.

-Able to pull and find an opponent to pancake.

-Strong lower body doesn’t get budged by bull rushes or power moves.

We got to keep a closer eye on Sam.

Carlson as a whole has outperformed expectations this season, and much of that is thanks to role players like Sam.

Sam’s tape kicks off with a solid pass set. Good job forcing the DE to the ground, but there are several fundamental issues that he’ll need to work on this offseason. Against most teams, Sam is big enough and strong enough to win his pass blocks, as long as he’s putting in the effort (which is not a concern).

We get to see what Sam can do in the run game, starting at 0:19. Pulling on the reverse, Sam does a good job finding someone to block. Honestly, that defender had zero chance at a play, but Sam still goes the extra mile and pancakes him. Similarly, at 0:27, Sam does a great job locking on and driving his defender backward. I like what I see in terms of run blocking!

If Sam’s listed height and weight are accurate (6’5″ 280), he has a phenomenal opportunity to be a great prospect this Spring.

An offensive tackle who could has a legit MAC ceiling.

Assuming his listed size is correct (looks like it on tape), a few adjustments in the next year could result in amazing offers.
The good- Sam has hustle, and flashes good power. The highlight at 0:14 exemplifies this. Sam covers some nice ground and pancakes his defender in the dirt.

The biggest thing for Sam from a recruiting standpoint is going to be athleticism and footwork. I have seen it COUNTLESS times- offensive linemen with excellent size, competing at a camp, colleges showing interest, and the main thing they’re watching is athleticism and footwork. Of course, I hope to see Sam’s hands up, a good punch, and some grit.
No doubt that Sam will have another great season. This is someone I could see taking off next offseason if he improves athletically.