Kobe Smith
Video by Jeff Tyner, analysis by Wes Mitchell
Evaluation by Matt O'Brien
What I like: Smith has good size and understands how to leverage his body to maintain gap control at the line of scrimmage – something that many prospects at his position are either unable or unwilling to do. He’s got good power and balance, which combine to help him win the battle against strong interior offensive linemen. I also appreciate his motor, as his tape highlights his effort and ability to track down plays run to the other side of the field.
Instant impact? With four defensive tackles entering their junior and senior seasons for the Gamecocks, it will be tough for Smith to crack the rotation in his first year. However, there are two reasons that will help him compete for playing time: 1) enrolling early gives Smith extra time to develop his positional skills, learn the playbook, and work on his strength & conditioning, and 2) Smith has experience playing 1-technique in high school, which is most likely where Coach Muschamp will have him aligned. This gives Smith an easier learning curve than most defensive line prospects, who essentially have to learn a new position once they get to college.
Rivals rating: I believe Smith will develop into a good player for the Gamecocks, and so I agree with his 5.7 three-star rating – which again, is a very good rating for a high school prospect.