:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66951524/usa_today_13483122.0.jpg)
Name: Chris Bleich
Position: Offensive Line
Year: (Redshirt) Sophomore
Height: 6’6”
Weight: 330 lbs.
Hometown: Hanover Township, Pa.
High School: Wyoming Valley West
2019 stats: At the University of Florida, Bleich played in nine games, starting eight at right guard, starting the season opener versus Miami.
2020 projections: As Steve mentioned a few weeks ago, the hope is that Bleich can slot into the open spot on the starting O-line vacated by Evan Adams, allowing the Orange to run with a line of 4 returning starters in their primary positions and Bleich.
How’d he get here?: Bleich had stated back in November that he wanted to transfer from Florida, and was looked at by Pitt as well as the Orange. Back during his initial high school recruitment, Bleich was recruited heavily by Penn State, and opted for UCLA before flipping to Florida.
What’d recruiting sites say?: Coming out of high school, ESPN gave him 4 stars, and he got 3 stars from the rest.
Money quote: From his initial announcement posts, Bleich explains his process.
Two years ago I didn’t see me being in the circumstances that I am in, but I wasn’t able to control what happened in my situationGoing through this decision all over again was the hardest thing for me mentally and physically. After praying on my decision and asking God for help he showed me where I was meant to be. Syracuse was my first offer in high school 6 years ago, I’m happy to say I’m part of the Syracuse football program. I want to thank Coach Babers and Coach Cavanaugh for giving me a second chance at this game I love. For that I will forever be thankful to them.
Twitter feed: @Bleich67 but it is protected.
Tweets of wonder: There was a lot of confusion around Syracuse’s counting of signees on signing day, which Stephen Bailey clarified was because of recruiting rules around Bleich.
It’s Florida G transfer Chris Bleich. The program just hasn’t officially announced his addition yet. That’s why Dino couldn’t address Bleich at early signing day: https://t.co/I5CWJjJqdg
— Stephen Bailey (@Stephen_Bailey1) January 10, 2020
What movie would Dino recommend for him?: “I Am Legend” is a movie about the last man standing, and David Bleich did artwork for the movie.
Interesting nugget o’interest: Bleich is joining a growing contingent of PA players on Syracuse’s roster, and his hometown is just outside Scranton — an easy drive from Syracuse (as Orange fans know, of course).
Let’s get a look at ya: Here’s some talking about Florida team bonding, and I’m all in for some wrestling on the ACCN in the 3 a.m. slot.