Tom Smith Video, Apopka High School running back:
Class of 2011 running back Tom Smith committed to the Vols in June of this year. Listed at 5-foot-11, 202 pounds, Smith is considered a 3-star prospect by ESPN, earning a Scouts Grade of 76.
Last night, the talented back racked up 108 yards and two touchdowns on just 12 carries as Apopka High School demolished South Lake by a score of 50-14.
South Lake coach Walter Banks was very complimentary of Smith after the game.
“He can definitely be tough to handle,” Banks said. “He’s a powerful runner, and the offense is so difficult to prepare for that all of them in the backfield can be tough to contain.”
ESPN Evaluation:
Smith should see his recruiting stock rise during the spring evaluation period; aside from lacking great top-end speed, he is a complete back and physically ready to make the jump to the college level. Has very good size and a frame to continue filling out to the 215-pound range. A strong, downhill runner who hits the hole with good quickness and authority. What really impresses us is his shoulder lean and ability to run behind his pads for a taller back. Lower running base allows him see the cutback lanes quicker through traffic and displays more than adequate footwork and redirection skill to hit. Squares up quickly out of cuts to help power through arm tackles. Generates good downhill power and is very difficult to wrap up cleanly when he runs behind his pads. Determined runner who keeps his stronger legs and lower-body driving for extra yards; he is a finisher who can move the pile and eventually wear down a defense. Seems to consistently fall forward and gain an extra yard or two. Balance, strength and ability to break first contact as a runner are his best assets. However, he is a bit stiff through the hips and lacks great suddenness and pick and dart ability coveted in a true zone runner at the next level. Gears down and gathers some when cutting. We did not see great lateral quickness or burst to the outside to become a perimeter threat versus faster pursuing college defenders. Projects best in downhill schemes but would still lack to see a bit more initial explosiveness. Our main concern may be his adequate top-end speed and difficulty trying to separate in the second level; appears to be a short-stepper without a second gear and great acceleration. That said, Smith is well-rounded and does a lot of things good not great. Will need to polish blocking skills but he is a potential three-phase back at the next level with his ability to move the chains on the ground and as a pass catcher in the screen game.
More on Tom Smith’s performance last night.