Venice 3-year starting RT Anthony Tanaka exploring recruiting options

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

College football programs looking to solidify their roster with talent in the trenches, take a look at Anthony Tanaka. All the principles wanted in a player, Tanaka (6-4, 295) has; three-year starter at right tackle for one of Florida’s top high school football programs, four-time state championship game player with two state championship wins, 4.4 GPA, and a team captain. All that talent, Tanaka is still weighing recruiting options looking for that ideal fit.

If one wants to be technical about Tanaka’s playing career, he started as a freshman getting game experience on extra points. His sophomore year, he took over helping anchor the offensive line for the Venice Indians.

“We run a very run-heavy up-tempo offense,” Tanaka stated. “We dominate the line of scrimmage and make it so they have to put seven in the box so we can throw the ball.”

In addition to playing right tackle, Tanaka got game and practice reps at center showing his versatility.

Anthony Tanaka in action with Venice High School.

“I’m great at getting done what needs to be done,” Tanaka shared. “I can put my hand in the ground on each play and run through someone else. The block or play may go bad but if you keep going it will get better. I have great field awareness, I know cut back lanes, and I always stay in the play.

“Another strength is my ability to lead block and open the gap. Running to my side is great. I am great at combo blocks. I am explosive, getting three or four yards on each play running behind me. I can adjust quickly, I can do tackle and guard twists switching with a guard, and I can go inside for a blitz. I am good at reading the defense knowing what they are doing, knowing what to watch out for, and knowing when they will do it.”

The strength to move defenders downfield is bolstered by Tanaka’s 350-pound bench max and 555-pound squat max.

Recruiting interest of late has come in from Miami-Ohio and USF with offers extended from Grinnell, Keiser, Albion, Concordia, Ellsworth, McPherson, Ripon, Allegheny, Minnesota West, and Colby.

Tanaka spoke about a game-day visit this fall, “I took one to Kaiser University in West Palm. It went really well. They have a beautiful campus and great coaches. I had a great tour, and I got to watch the game.”

*Click the link for Anthony Tanaka’s hudl film.

Photo credit: Tanaka family – Anthony Tanaka on recruiting visit – Tanaka in action.

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