The Other Chase Clement

Rice fans know who Chase Clement is. He threw for 3,377 yards and 29 touchdowns for the Owls this season, including a 498 total yard (103 rush), 8 touchdown (2 rush) performance against UTEP earlier this season. E.D. White High School's Chase Clement will likely never throw a touchdown in college. He might catch a few though.

LSU's version of Chase Clement, who many people believe is the top prospect in the state of Louisiana, committed to LSU Saturday night on his visit to Baton Rouge. How he ranks:

Rivals: #5 strongside defensive end, #100 overall
Scout: #10 defensive end, #130 overall
ESPN: #9 tight end, #150 overall

The 6-5, 250 lb athlete is incredibly versatile. Clement's combination of size, strength and athleticism make him a very intriguing prospect. On offense, Clement is used in a lot of ways. He has the speed and feet to be a deep threat in the passing game but is big and strong enough to be a solid blocker. I have seen him take end arounds as he was even used in the run game. How many tight ends in college can do that? Travis Beckum? Martin Rucker? It is a rare skill set.

Clement shows nice ball skills as he uses his hands to catch the ball at its highest point. His route running ability will need some work but he does have good instincts. He is not a threat after the catch in open field as he lacks top end speed and small space agility.

If he wants to play on the defensive line he will need to put on 15-20 pounds. He shows nice burst but can be a bit stiff when rushing off the end. He will never be a speed rusher so he will need to utilize that great strength he already has and get bigger and stronger if he wants to be a defensive end.

Clement had three uncles that played football at LSU.

Photo by Houston Chronicle