By Kevin Lonnquist
Publisher
You don’t know what you don’t know until you know.
Well, Baylor thinks it knows a little something about Louisiana 2024 outside linebacker Albert Smith.
The Bears were the first ones to offer the native of Ponchatoula who may be on the cusp of having a summer camp season that could escalate into something more. However, that turns out, sometimes getting the early jump – especially from a program that’s coming off 2021 Big 12 title and No. 5 national ranking – can make a difference. No other program has offered Smith.
In case you’re wondering, Ponchatoula is a town of about 7,500 just north of Lake Pontchartrain.
“I think it’s a great school,’’ Smith said. “And in the future, if it worked out, maybe a school that I would commit to.’’
Smith has been working on developing his relationship with the Baylor coaching staff by starting with new outside linebackers coach Caleb Collins. Collins has a background in Louisiana as he followed Aranda from LSU and playing college football at Southeast Louisiana.
Collins knows the territory and has the relationships. Plus, Baylor’s history of finding solid defensive players out of Louisiana has developed over the years. But first things first. This is the time for Smith to understand Baylor before he goes any further. Smith plans on attending the July 30 camp.
“It’s a great relationship with coach Collins,’’ Smith said. “There’s a great vibe. We understand each other. I just want to continue to get to know him and the rest of the staff.’’
Ponchatoula’s defense turned in a pretty impressive 2021 season. It allowed just 11.4 points per game and recorded three consecutive shutouts. In five other games, opponents scored single digits.
The Green Wave climbed to No. 3 in the Louisiana Class 5A rankings. It fell to No. 1 Zachary in the state championship game, 28-20.
“My goal was and is to get to the quarterback as quick as possible,’’ Smith said jokingly. “I feel like my strengths are my pass rushing abilities and good tackling. I can improve when I drop into pass coverage.’’
Initially, Baylor sees Smith as a defensive end. The Jack has been discussed. But that would depend on how his 6-2, 205-pound frame fills out and if its needs change. His first step off the line of scrimmage is something to watch.
What will be intriguing to track is what the staff will think of him should he be able to make an appearance at the camp.
Publisher
You don’t know what you don’t know until you know.
Well, Baylor thinks it knows a little something about Louisiana 2024 outside linebacker Albert Smith.
The Bears were the first ones to offer the native of Ponchatoula who may be on the cusp of having a summer camp season that could escalate into something more. However, that turns out, sometimes getting the early jump – especially from a program that’s coming off 2021 Big 12 title and No. 5 national ranking – can make a difference. No other program has offered Smith.
In case you’re wondering, Ponchatoula is a town of about 7,500 just north of Lake Pontchartrain.
“I think it’s a great school,’’ Smith said. “And in the future, if it worked out, maybe a school that I would commit to.’’
Smith has been working on developing his relationship with the Baylor coaching staff by starting with new outside linebackers coach Caleb Collins. Collins has a background in Louisiana as he followed Aranda from LSU and playing college football at Southeast Louisiana.
Collins knows the territory and has the relationships. Plus, Baylor’s history of finding solid defensive players out of Louisiana has developed over the years. But first things first. This is the time for Smith to understand Baylor before he goes any further. Smith plans on attending the July 30 camp.
“It’s a great relationship with coach Collins,’’ Smith said. “There’s a great vibe. We understand each other. I just want to continue to get to know him and the rest of the staff.’’
Ponchatoula’s defense turned in a pretty impressive 2021 season. It allowed just 11.4 points per game and recorded three consecutive shutouts. In five other games, opponents scored single digits.
The Green Wave climbed to No. 3 in the Louisiana Class 5A rankings. It fell to No. 1 Zachary in the state championship game, 28-20.
“My goal was and is to get to the quarterback as quick as possible,’’ Smith said jokingly. “I feel like my strengths are my pass rushing abilities and good tackling. I can improve when I drop into pass coverage.’’
Initially, Baylor sees Smith as a defensive end. The Jack has been discussed. But that would depend on how his 6-2, 205-pound frame fills out and if its needs change. His first step off the line of scrimmage is something to watch.
What will be intriguing to track is what the staff will think of him should he be able to make an appearance at the camp.
