Dominating The Trenches: Film Breakdown OL Brandon Shell

Goose Creek offensive tackle Brandon Shell is the most menacing offensive lineman prospect in the state. The USC commitment has dominated his opponents since starting and has a huge upside potential for the collegiate level. Will more than likely redshirt to catch up on pass blocking game.

It's not architecturally sound, but teams at all levels build their offensive lines from the outside in, making offensive tackle a very important position.

Because most high school teams put their most talented offensive lineman at tackle, it is naturally the deepest O-line position to recruit. However, many prospects at offensive tackle will eventually be moved to center or guard once they enter college if they lack overall athleticism or ideal height.

The prospects who stay at offensive tackle are likely to be at least
6-foot-5, 275 pounds when they enter college. These players must also have the frame to add weight and the athleticism to maintain their speed and footwork.

The left offensive tackle must be the best athlete on the offensive line. He usually lines up on the weak side with no help from the tight end and is blocking the defense's best pass-rusher, who is usually smaller and quicker. Not to mention he also must protect the quarterback's blind side. He should also be an adequate run-blocker, but most left offensive tackles are more finesse- and position-type players rather than overpowering-type players. These guys have the feet and range to "ride" the defensive end past the pocket and also the power to anchor against the run and handle a power or bull rush.

The right offensive tackle is usually a little more physical because he is more involved in the run game. Most teams are right-handed and tend to run to that side. He doesn't have to be quite as gifted as a pass-protector, because in many cases he has a tight end lined up next to him. People often incorrectly assume that the right tackle must be a big, physical guy and therefore doesn't necessarily have to have great feet and quickness. Since tight ends can go in motion or switch to the other side, the right tackle can be put on an island protecting the outside. He still needs to have strength and size because the defensive end that he is playing over is a little more physical than the other side.

Division I-A programs are always going to have interest in any prospect who has experience at both left and right tackle. Tight end prospects often turn out to be excellent tackles with great athleticism, feet and range.

Jim Baxter's Evaluation of Brandon Shell

Initial quicks: Very quick coming off of the snap, with great feet - frequently more agile than the defensive linemen he faces. Run block: When not allowing defenders to cut him, is dominating at the point of attack.  Pass block: Great footwork, very nimble for a big guy;  does not do a lot of pass blocking in Gator offense. Pull and trap: Not asked to do a lot, but has athleticism to hit moving targets as seen on film and makes good adjustments in space. Use of hands: Needs to get better use of his arms and hands to keep defenders from cutting him down at point of attack. Strength: Moves the pile in the run game and anchors well in pass protection. Never overpowered. Explosion: Explodes into opponents, frequently ending in knockdowns; very good finisher.

See Brandon Shell Highlights Here