Spring Report Card: Offensive Line

by Trey Manning - Correspondent - Thu Apr 28 23:08:05 GMT-04:00 2005

Barry Richardson had a tremendous freshman season after graduating from high school a year early. Coming into the spring, everyone expected Richardson to lock down the left tackle spot. Well everyone included Richardson, it was clear he felt that he had arrived. Coach Brad Scott was extremely disappointed in Richardson this spring. Richardson was frequently seen running and doing up downs throughout the spring. The spring concluded for Richardson by getting annihilated by Gaines Adams. This spring was a major awakening for Richardson.

He is extremely talented, but he now realizes success is not something you achieve just once. Success comes from putting in the effort every time you go out on the field or every time you step in the weight room. Richardson admitted that he needs to lose 20 pounds in the off-season to play at his highest level. It is better for Richardson to know now and possibly avoid a sophomore slump. Tim Debeer gave a strong push in the spring, and he will look to take advantage of any mistake made by Richardson.

Roman Fry completed the cycle this spring, when he was moved to center. Fry has now played guard, tackle, and center for the Tigers. He is currently listed as the first string left guard and second string center. Chip Myrick's injury forced him to move over to guard. Fry had a solid spring at both positions, but the staff would like to keep him at guard.

Dustin Fry stepped in at first string center. Fry is one of the strongest players to ever play at Clemson. His size and strength are an upgrade from Tommy Sharpe. Fry could really open up the inside running game this fall as he showed the ability to this spring. The biggest concern falls behind Fry.

(Roman) Fry is his back up, but as mention the staff wants to keep him at guard. Clint Latray is still not performing well enough to see the field. Bobby Hutchinson did play this spring, but he is working his way back from knee surgery. After watching the spring, this may be an area where a freshman receives a look in the fall.

Marion Dukes is solid at right tackle, and Nathan Bennett gets the job done at right guard. Brandon Pilgrim played well after the redshirt season last year.

If Richardson gets his act together, this could be Tommy Bowden's best offensive line. There are still some pieces that need to be fixed, but the recent recruiting efforts are starting to show. Richardson's performance at left tackle is very vital, and his performance this spring really brought the grade down of this group.

Grade: C-