Former Indiana defensive lineman Philip Blidi was regarded as a significant acquisition for the Auburn Tigers when he committed to the team in April.
At the time of his commitment in April, Blidi was seen as one of the top defensive linemen available in the transfer portal. He had started 11 of Indiana’s 12 games last season, recording 30 total tackles, four tackles for loss, and a pair of quarterback hurries.
Now, as he enters his first fall camp with Auburn, Blidi is making an impression both on and off the field. Head coach Hugh Freeze noted on August 9 that Blidi is “as strong as I’ve had.” Auburn defensive line coach Vontrell King-Williams, who is also quite muscular, agreed, saying, “When you shake Blidi’s hand, you better be ready. He might throw your shoulder out of socket.” King-Williams also highlighted Blidi’s additional physical attributes, noting that he is not only strong but also fast and “twitchy.”
While those physical traits are what any defensive line coach would appreciate, they aren’t King-Williams’ favorite aspects of Blidi.
“The thing I love most about him,” King-Williams said, “is that he has a ‘why,’ and you see it every time he steps on the field. He’s playing for his wife and his kids. That’s what makes him unique—his passion for the game is evident because he plays so hard.”