Coffee’s hallmark style of smashmouth football has cemented the program as a state power over the years. No matter who lines up, how big they are, doesn’t seem to matter when looking at the box score. The Trojans athletes are built tough and do not back down from competition.
Perhaps no one on this 2024 team embolizes that mindset better than offensive guard Tico Smith. The 5’11” 250 lbs. senior blocker was just named our OL of the Week for Week 3.
“My senior year is going great. I have 8 pancakes at the moment this year and my goal this season is to win another state championship and be better than what we were last,” Smith said.
Smith is a bruising blocker who leverages his low center of gravity and strong lower body to drive defenders out of the play. His tenacity and toughness have benefitted from his improved football IQ.
“I’ve improved more this offseason in recognizing fronts and reading small tendencies when a blitz is coming,” he said.
There was an array of blocks just last week where Smith was in his bag. He talked about his mindset on the field.
“My mindset on the field when blocking is how would I want my o-lineman to block if I were running back, so I try to put myself in the RB shoes.”
Coffee’s offense is always among the rushing leaders in their classification, which is great for a blocker like Smith, who relishes getting downhill. On the recruiting front, the senior gave a quick update.
“My college recruiting is going great. Talking to a few great programs, picked up my last offer from West Minnesota. I’m taking a visit to Mars Hill University this fall.”
Those programs are in line with Smith’s capabilities and you should expect even more local programs taking an interest as the fall continues. With his recruitment continuing to evolve, be sure to follow @RecruitGeorgia on Twitter/X to hear the latest on the senior and athletes all across the state of Georgia.
