DITR – Blaine Savoie

Blaine Savoie is a 5’11”, 265 pound, class of 2024 Offensive Lineman from Rosepine High School in Rosepine, Louisiana. Blaine predominantly lines up at right guard for the Eagles. On tape, he demonstrates good footwork and his strength, which he uses to mow over defenders in the run game. In the passing game, he rarely allows a sack since he plays with a high motor and is able to plant his feet and not be pushed back by defensive lineman. Blaine won 1st team all-district honors last season for his play. Blaine is very athletic for his body type, as at Gridiron Football’s most recent camp in early March in Jonesboro, Louisiana, Blaine ran a 5.00 40-yard dash and a 4.94 shuttle, as well as hitting the 7 foot mark in the broad jump drill. His performance at our most recent camp, both in combine drills and one on one’s, as well as his stellar play last season has earned Blaine an invitation to play in Gridiron Football’s upcoming bowl game this December in Orange beach, Alabama.

I had the chance to interview Blaine recently:

Why and at what age did you start playing football?

“I started playing football at 7 years old. I played at first because my brother wanted me to. After awhile, I grew to love the game and enjoy every aspect of it.”

Have you always played your current position, or did you play a different position growing up?

“Growing up, I always played offensive line and defensive line. Once I got onto the varsity field, my time playing defense was over.”

What sets you apart from everyone else on the field?

“What sets me apart from everyone else on the field is my thought process. If we are down 7 in the 3rd quarter or 21 in the 4th, I still believe that we could comeback if we are all in. On the field, I try to take into account every possible block that I need to execute. “

What is your favorite accomplishment so far in your football career?

“My favorite accomplishment so far in my Varsity career was during my sophomore year. Rosepine had never been to the quarter finals in the school’s history. We made it there two years in a row, and I played in both of the final games.

What is your favorite memory playing football so far?

“My favorite memory so far was during our summer workouts. This is the time where we get to meet our new freshmen and get to know them. I met one of my best friends my sophomore year as he was an upcoming freshman.”

How do you balance athletics and academics?

“I balance athletics and my academics very carefully. Working in the classroom is just as important as working anywhere else athletically. I’ve maintained a 3.8-4.0 GPA through my high school career so far.”

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced on the field?

“One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced on the field is playing through our 2nd round playoff game with a freshly sprained ankle.”

Is there a certain player you try to model your game after?

“One person that I attempt to model my game after is Michael Oher. His story is inspirational and his strength mentally and physically throughout his career is admirable.

How do you stay physically fit outside of football?

“To stay physically fit outside of football, I compete in high school powerlifting. I placed 7th in the state my freshmen year and 4th my sophomore year. Junior year is still to come.”

What are you hoping to achieve in this upcoming season?

“In the upcoming season I hoping for our team to be able to make it past the quarter finals again. Individually I hope to be a 1st or 2nd team all-state offensive linemen.”

What is your end goal for your football career?

“My end goal for my football career is to be known as the best offensive linemen to come through Rosepine High School. I’d also love the opportunity to compete on the next level.”

What is the most important lesson you’ve learned playing football?

“The greatest lesson I have learned is that it is important to be coachable and respectful. When a coach is trying to get something across, you should be listening and respond accordingly to any question.”

How do you prepare for big games?

“Before big games, I will usually go over some of the other teams film. Once I get to our locker room, I make sure to set up my things ahead of time so I’ll be ready for action. Last, I put on my headphones sit down and focus on what I’m about to do.”

What type of play style do you have?

“My play style is aggressive; my job is to fire off the line and either drive my opponent far away from my running back or protect my quarterback from the defensive linemen.”

Lastly, who is the biggest role model in your life?

“The biggest role model in my life is my brother. Growing up together, we fought almost all the time. Once we started growing up and began to realize we actually liked each other, we became best friends. By the time we started growing a strong bond, he joined the marines. Before he left though, he taught me how to be strong mentally and physically. He showed me how to lift weights and how to build strong character. I wouldn’t be where I am now without the help my brother gave me.”

Photo courtesy of Blaine Savoie