Matt Blades Class: Sophomore Hometown: Laurel Hill, N.C. High School: Richmond County Height / Weight: 6-6 / 284 Position: OT

Furman: Emerged from spring practice listed as a reserve left tackle behind projected starter Ryan Lee and backup McKenzy Opio....should see his first action in 2009. 2008 -- Member of scout team...awarded redshirt and extra year of eligibility.

High School: 2008 graduate of football powerhouse Richmond County (4A) High School...coach was Paul Hoggard...served as team captain and in his only season of starting duty earned honorable mention all-conference honors in 2007...helped lead Richmond County to a 13-2 record and the program's 13th consecutive conference championship and 27th overall league crown.

Personal: Full name is Matthew Pearson Blades...son of Kelly Campbell and Bryan Blades...born November 16, 1989, in Laurinburg, North Carolina...has a brother, Jordan...undeclared major.