If you were typing up Chris Pantale’s preseason scouting report for 2012, you could probably do a copy and paste from the past two years.
It would probably go something like this: Pantale is a skilled tight end with the size, receiving skills and blocking skills to be an NFL tight end. Look for him to be a breakout player in the ACC this year.
For whatever reason, Pantale’s previous three offensive coordinators at BC haven’t been able to figure out how to get the ball to him. Even though he has played in every game over the past two seasons, Pantale has only totaled 52 receptions for 574 yards and four touchdowns.
Heading into the last two games of 2011, Pantale had only compiled 13 receptions for 106 yards in 10 games, before putting together back-to-back solid performances to finish out the year.
“I think my production went up at the end of the year because the offense in general was producing,” said Pantale. “Chase (Rettig) and I had a nice rhythm going at the end of the year and he did a great job of finding me.”
BC fans hope Pantale and Rettig can stay in rhythm with new offensive coordinator Doug Martin in charge. Pantale admits the constant change at offensive coordinator was a hindrance in past seasons, but this year it hasn’t been too disruptive.
“In the past few years, we’ve been installing new offenses and usually there has been a bit of a learning curve, and it takes a couple practices to get it under your belt, and to get the freshmen caught up,” Pantale said.
“This year, we’ve been adapting to the offense better than the other years when I’ve been around. There have been less mental mistakes and the practice just seems to be flowing.”
This year many expect Pantale to equal or top the production of his past two seasons — combined. While receiving production is important to Pantale, he stresses that it’s not the only thing to look at when evaluating tight ends.
“Look at a guy like Rob Gronkowski. He’s a player that can do it all and is a weapon. I want to turn into a player that the offense can count on every play, whether it’s making a big catch, or knocking someone over on a run play. My goal is to be an overall weapon on offense,” Pantale said.