What to expect from Scout Trout All-American Jimmy Bates and Vancleave HS Football's Flex-Bone Offense.

Same athlete, new look!

How will ATHlete jimmy Bates make the transition to the H-Back/FB position in 2018? 

JImmy Bates preparing as a B-Back 

Jimmy Bates has always been a great athlete. Over the last few years, I have gotten to see him grow from a athletic linebacker into a weapon on the offensive side of the football. Bates is shown above in his new role at the fullback/b-back position and shows the athletic skill set of a outstanding H-back for the next level. Operating out of a GA Tech "Flex-Bone" style attack, Bates is seen hitting the hole very quickly and shows very good agility after he gets through the hole. Jimmy has some of the best hands we had seen in his class the past few years at Scout Trout camps, and I love how Coach Capers sneaks him out into the flat from the FB position. Jimmy gets up the field very quickly after catching the football, as he had outstanding combine numbers at every Scout Trout workout. In the "Flex-Bone" offense, the full-back must be strong enough to draw linebackers and defensive linemen's attention, as they are the main ball carriers in this scheme. A "Flex-Bone" full-back, is normally smaller than your average full-back, as they are relied on to grind out tough yards and carry many of the same blocking assignments that a traditional full-back would. These backs are even more valuable when they can contribute in the passing game by protecting their QB and by being utilized on play-action on routes.  On Jimmy's last run, you really see him start to understand the offense, as he is able to use his blocks very nicely and use his great acceleration to get up field. I think Jimmy is a great defensive player, but I have said from day one he could also be a very talented offensive player with his unique skill-set. When I heard Coach Capers was going to play Jimmy at full-back, I had no idea that he was going to be in a perfect "Flex-Bone" position to help his team win. Learn more about the "Flex-Bone" offense from Georgia Tech's Head Coach Paul Johnson and watch Kyle Eckel if you want to know how to operate as a B-BACK at the next level!