Behind The Film With 2024 Gamecock O-Line Signee Blake Franks
Today, we continue our Behind the Film series here on Gamecock Digest and break down 2024 early enrollee and offensive lineman Blake Franks, who likely projects to play on the interior. Rated as a three-star and the 7th-best recruit in South Carolina by On3 Sports' Industry Rankings, Franks is one of the pieces that make up the Gamecocks' impressive 2024 haul along the offensive line, a group that's been dubbed "The Great Wall Of Carolina."
Before breaking down the film, I got to ask Franks two things: what's an area of your game that you think needs to improve, and which aspect of your game do you believe would translate well to the SEC? Blake responded by saying, "I would love to improve my run game and have stronger pop," which is needed to move bigger SEC defensive linemen.
However, Franks thinks his aggressiveness will translate well, saying, "I believe my aggressiveness will be important on the next level. Knowing how to properly cut that aggressiveness off and on or dial it back a bit will be significant."
Gamecock OL Signee Blake Franks (far left) playing in the 2023 Shrine Bowl of the Carolinas (20th Dec., 2023)
Ken Ruinard | The Greenville News
What The Film Says
Franks was primarily asked to play outside at tackle in high school but may more than likely slide inside when he gets to Carolina. He was also asked to perform pull blocks quite a bit, which could help him out should he move to guard.
With the different run-pass option (RPO) concepts Gamecock offensive coordinator Dowell Loggains could run, Blake's ability to execute pull blocks could put him ahead of the curve. As he admitted himself, he needs more work in other run-blocking aspects. Being more forceful at impact, he tends to ease into the block rather than moving them out of the way or out of the gap.
I like his ability to move and glide at times, but I would like to see more work on his first step. While he will need to improve, he has the experience to do what may be asked of him and is a coachable player, which could lead to him earning a more significant role after a season or two in Columbia.
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