Blake Bell
Bishop Carroll High School (KS)
6’5″ 212 pounds
Quarterback
Status: Verbal to Oklahoma
Scouts, Inc. Grade: ESPNU 150 Watch List
On the Trail
Also Considered: Kansas, LSU, Georgia, Notre Dame, Kansas State, Missouri, Tennessee, UCLA, Clemson, Miami-FL, West Virginia, Iowa, Iowa State, Arizona, Colorado State
Scouts, Inc. Evaluation
Bell is ironically a dual-threat QB that stands at about 6’6 with surprising athleticism and ability to make plays with his legs as well as his arm. He reminds us a little of a taller Jake Locker from the 2006 class only Bell isn’t as physically imposing in terms of his frame just yet. Bell has only been a starter at QB for one full season having spent time at WR as a sophomore so his best football is definitely ahead of him. He is long and lanky with good feet and a nice feel in the pocket. Plays primarily out of the shotgun in a spread scheme that really utilizes his versatility. He is one of those guys that can make every throw yet still maintain touch and throws a very catchable ball. Gets set in the pocket, certainly has the size to scan the field and generally gets rid of the ball on time. This scheme features a lot of short and intermediate throws and some deeper touch passes down the sideline and he has shown he can fit the ball into tight spots when he is on time and his feet are set. Shows a quick release and nice RPM’s on underneath throws. He has improved his overall ball speed and velocity and he has upside to possess an elite arm over time. Athletically he is an impressive guy, he can create and improvise when things break down and will buy himself extra time with his feet while keeping his eyes downfield. Has good speed for the position and also throws well on the run, particularly to his right side. Has the arm and intuition to throw off balance when he has to and make a last ditch effort to make a play. Bell, while talented, is still raw in terms of consistent mechanics at times. Can carry the ball low and will take his off hand off the ball with pressure around him. Must be careful as not to get stripped. Can be a tense passer in the upper body and must relax and become more fluid in his overall mechanics. Compared to some other QB’s in other regions, level of competition could be perceived as a concern coming out, but his talent level certainly isn’t. Overall, the best thing about Bell is his upside to be much better in two to three years than he is now which excites coaches with his high ceiling for development. He has the arm, measurables and athleticism to succeed and he also appears to be highly competitive in terms of intangibles.
