Lantern
Texan adds to top class
Michael Bestic
Issue date: 1/31/08
Section: Sports
They say everything is bigger in Texas and new football recruit J.B. Shugarts is no exception. His 6-foot-7-inch, 300-pound build, combined with a 5.1 time in the 40-yard dash, make for an offensive lineman who can hit hard and fast.
The Klein High School graduate committed to Ohio State in late April and is already attending classes.
During his three-year career with the Klein Bearkats, Shugarts dominated the opposition with his size and quickness. His senior season he had 121 pancakes and never allowed his quarterback to be sacked. Not only did Shugarts play offensive tackle, he briefly played defensive end and was even quick enough to play tight end for some of his junior season.
"A good athlete like J.B. that is (6 feet 7 inches), 300 pounds is always going to be a big influence on your football team," Klein coach Stan Labay said.
During his senior season, Shugarts helped the Bearkats to a 7-5 record and a trip to the playoffs where they lost in the second round.
After the season, Shugarts was awarded numerous accolades including 5A Unanimous First Team All District Offensive Lineman of 2007 and was asked to play in the Army All-American Bowl with other high-ranking recruits. Shugarts is also ranked No. 56 in the ESPN top 150 recruits.
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