The Longhorns offensive line problems just became a little less apparent with the addition of JUCO OL Mikey Grandy. The San Mateo product did not have many DI offers before Texas identified him. After that, Grandy picked up 2 more from UCLA and Arizona State. This was a battle between UCLA and Texas from the beginning. Grandy is a California native, so UCLA and new head coach Chip Kelly was very appealing. In the end, the opportunity to play right away at Texas won the day. The Longhorns desperately needed OL help, and they got it. This will be a nice addition to the 2018 class.
Film Analysis
At 6’5″, 305 pounds, Grandy has the measurables of an offensive tackle. But potentially to the dismay of Texas fans, I don’t believe that is his ceiling in college. Although Grandy has the size and arm length to be an efficient tackle, his feet say otherwise. At San Mateo, Grandy was not tested much in the passing game. When he was, he won those matchups simply because he was not going against any defenders with true speed. We all saw Denzel Okafor and Tristan Nickelson get beat by speed rushers consistently in conference play this year. If the Longhorns stick Grandy at LT next season, they might get the same result.
So what’s the good news, then? Grandy is an absolute mauler in the run game. He could come in an immediately help fix the interior woes that plagued Texas this season. More holes for talented running backs = a more balanced offense. It’s a win-win for Tom Herman. Grandy has a particular nastiness to him that reminds me of Connor Williams. He does not stop punishing his opponent until the whistle blows. Maybe that comes from his time in the MMA after high school, but it’s nevertheless refreshing to see. Regardless of where Grandy plays next season, he will make an immediate impact. This is a huge pickup for Texas, and one that can help the offense immediately.
Final Verdict
Landing a JUCO OL became imperative for Tom Herman and Derek Warehime this cycle. Even though Texas may miss on their other JUCO prospects, Grandy was a must-have after being offered. With the departure of Jake McMillon and Terrell Cuney, RG is wide open next season. My prediction is that Grandy finds a home there, even though he played LT at San Mateo. Even though he has tackle measureables, his footwork reminds me too much of Tristan Nickelson and Denzel Okafor. Grandy could very well improve his footwork in the offseason and become a viable LT. If he doesn’t, don’t fret. Wherever he lines up, he will help the Texas offense with his physicality and run blocking abilities.
