I just watched the Shrine Bowl and I'm just thrilled I got to see some actual football. Even better though, I got to see some future Hawkeyes play for the first time. I already posted about Wyatt Suess, but now have some updates on 3 more players: Brett Van Sloten, Drew Clark, and Jordan Cotton.
Brett Van Sloten:
Van Sloten is an offensive tackle and was playing for the North team. What really stood out to me was his pass blocking ability. I don't recall him getting beat at all on a passing play though the defense wasn't allowed to stunt or blitz. He's got some good size at 6'7", 270 and it showed on the field. He had no problem over-powering the South's defensive ends. Van Sloten also handled the punting duties for the North. I don't think there's any chance he'll be punting for Iowa, but he did have a few nice kicks.
Drew Clark:
Clark played tackle opposite of Van Sloten on the North's offensive line. He looked really quick for a lineman. He consistently was getting to the second level on run plays and was effective when pulled on counter plays. I did notice him whiff on some of his blocks though and one time I'm pretty sure he ran right over his teammate. But, when he did get on his block he looked very good clearing the way for the North's running backs.
Jordan Cotton:
Cotton had a very good game for the South. He was a wingback in the game and will be a wide receiver at Iowa. Cotton showed his quickness today catching a few passes and running the ball effectively. He also showed some elusiveness, especially when he got the ball in space. I don't have the stats, but it wouldn't surprise me if he had the most yards for the South team. I'm not sure if it's because it is July, but he did make a few mistakes as well. He had an illegal shift penalty against him and also slipped and fumbled the ball once. I'm sure with some more practice he'll get those things fixed.
I don't think any of these guys will see the field this fall, though Cotton has an outside chance. But, it was still fun to get to see them play and I fully expect to see them contributing in the years to come.