Claytor, Walls learning in the trenches for Tech

ATLANTA -- Two years after graduating from Gainesville High School as a standout lineman, Nick Claytor is a different young man. His hair is longer, his body is smaller and, most importantly, his football IQ is higher than ever.

Claytor is now a redshirt freshman offensive lineman at Georgia Tech, where practice has begun in preparation for the 2008 season. Rather than heading into the season as the starter, Claytor is set to back up senior left tackle Andrew Gardner.

Being a backup is a different role for Claytor, who left Hall County as a highly-touted recruit, but it is one that he relishes. He says he has gained an immeasurable amount of knowledge from Gardner.

"Most people would probably be angry about it, but it's a blessing for me," says Claytor. "Any time he's doing a drill, he'll come to me and coach me up. So I'm learning every day from the coaches and from Gardner."

College football has a way of taking standout players such as Claytor and Flowery Branch quarterback Jaybo Shaw

http://accesswdun.com/article/2008/7/211989