Blake was an All-South Carolina receiver twice besides and was selected as a Sunkist Prep All-American at Summerville High. He led his team to state AAA championship his senior year. Blake was clocked several times at 9.4 seconds in the 100-yard dash. He was nicknamed "The Snake" from his high school days in South Carolina because of his striking ability in breaking for the long pass.

While at WVU, Blake still held the state record for 100- 200- and 400-yard dashes as well as the high hurdles and the broad jump in South Carolina. Blake was the first trackman in WVU history to own seven team records. He holds individual records in 100-yard dash, 220-yard dash and the 440-yard dash. He was also a member of four relay teams that set new school records: the 440-yard relay, the 880-yard relay, the mile relay and the sprint medley relay. Blake was voted the Outstanding Track Athlete his junior year at the All-Sport Banquet for his record breaking performances. He was also chosen as the outstanding trackman in all three of WVU's home meets his junior year.

As a freshman on WVU's football team, Blake was considered the fastest man ever to play for the Mountaineers. He was the leading receiver on the freshman squad, catching six passes for 188 yards and one score. As a sophomore, he was the Mountaineers' leading receiver as he caught 27 passes for 388 yards and two touchdowns. According to the coaches, he was one of the finest men ever to play at WVU. His biggest assets were his speed and good attitude. As a junior he was hampered by injuries and only participated in seven games and started two. He caught one pass for 13 yards.