Blackburn getting looks

In protecting the quarterback's blind spot, Kentwood, La., native Wendarius Blackburn did just that with success last fall and captured all-district honors for Jewel Summer High School. This offseason the 6-foot-4 and 285-pound junior left tackle is focused on doing more up front.

"I played left tackle last year and I thought I did real good," said Blackburn. "But I wasn't nowhere near satisfied and I am looking for a lot more this year. I am working mostly on my speed and footwork and that is a big thing. My strength has always been pretty good and I feel I am good in that area but I am still working hard in the weight room. But I really want to get off the line quicker and get out of my stance faster."

During his team workouts and daily goals of improving, Blackburn has also been drawing the attention of several Division 1 programs.

"It is starting to take off pretty good now and I like that," said Blackburn. "Mississippi State, Ole Miss, LSU, Kentucky, Southern Miss and Louisiana-Lafayette are starting to show a lot of interest. Ole Miss has been inviting me to their camp and I am looking to go to that camp and also go to Mississippi State and several others that I can make."

And so far, Blackburn has taken in a few visits to see some of those schools showing him interest.

"I have been to see Southern Miss, LSU, Mississippi State and ULL so far," said Blackburn. "It is pretty cool to watch those teams practice and it gives you a good glimpse of how college football is. They all practice on a high level and all of them go pretty hard."

Concerning the Bulldogs, Blackburn was able to watch Dan Mullen's program up close and saw the Bulldogs' second scrimmage of the spring that was held at Davis Wade Stadium.

"I am really liking Mississippi State and I know I am coming back to one of their camps," said Blackburn. "They've been recruiting me for some time now. I like the way the program is moving up and I really liked their stadium. Their offensive line looked pretty intense and they really get after it. The coaches were telling me what their expectations are for the program and I liked hearing all of that.

"They told me they really want me back for their summer camp. They want to see me in person and I hope that leads to an offer."