Spring Practice: Offensive Line Still Has Work To Do |
CLEMSON - While Cory Lambert and Jock McKissic battle for the left tackle spot during spring practice, a large presence could be looming in the future. When freshman Antoine McClain gets to campus this fall, Clemson head coach Tommy Bowden would like to see the youngster force his way into the fight, too. "That?d just be gravy if he can come in there and play some tackle as a true freshman, kind of like Barry Richardson," Bowden said following Friday's workout. "We?re not counting on it, but we?d sure like to see. He?s got some skills and his high school skills indicate he?s going to have a chance if he stays healthy and can pick up the offense.? At the moment Lambert has a leg up on the job. The Greenville High School product has yet to make much of an impact since joining the Tigers. But Bowden said that doesn't necessarily mean he won't before his career is done. ?It?s really his first chance to step out from behind Barry Richardson," he said. "A lot of times when your turn comes, the light comes on a little bit brighter. That?s kind of what?s happening with him right now. "He?s played at his highest level to date, but it?s not good enough right now.? Neither is the line's work as a unit. Instability up front has kept offensive coordinator Rob Spence from working on the downfield passing game much this spring. Some of it is due to poor protection. Some is Spence trying to keep things basic while the line tries to find both stride and chemistry. "We haven't been able to get as many downfield throws that we'd like because of the pressure," Bowden said. "We've just got to make sure we do that." Clemson is scheduled to scrimmage Saturday morning, weather permitting.
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