Hokies Recruiting Analysis: 4-Star OT Austin Clark

Oct 5, 2013; Blacksburg, VA, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies quarterback Logan Thomas (3) tacked the snap as offensive linesman Caleb Farris (79) and Jonathan McLaughlin (71) block in the second quarter at Lane Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

The Virginia Tech Hokies are building a strong recruiting class and the top rated player for the Hokies right now is 4-star offensive tackle Austin Clark. Clark was a huge pickup for the Hokies and will enroll in January which will give Clark a good chance to be a starting offensive tackle next season.

The Hokies are losing left tackle Laurence Gibson and Clark will battle Jonathan McLaughlin, Wade Hansen, and possibly Wyatt Teller if Stacy Searels decides to give him a chance at tackle. Of course, there are some other commits that could factor in but Clark will likely be in a very good position to push for a starting offensive tackle spot.

When looking at the film for Clark, you see a tackle who is already fairly well built at 6-6 and 295 pounds and will only get stronger once he gets into the Hokies’ weight room this spring. Clark also knows how to use that strength and absolutely dominates a lot of the people he blocks, even guys that actually look like they will play college football somewhere.

Clark has solid speed and is able to get down field to help create holes for his running back. Clark gets a lot of his power out of his very strong lower body which allows for him to be more explosive right off the line and slow down the opposing pass rusher or blitzer. Clark’s reactions are solid as he is very good at getting on his toes in a solid blocking position quickly off the snap.