The Clemson Tigers finished the 2021 college football season 10-3 overall and 6-2 in the ACC. Oddsmakers have given Clemson a 10.5 wins total projection. Dabo Swinney returns for his 15th season as the head coach of the Tigers. For the 11th consecutive season, Clemson finished with a double-digit win season. Offensively, Clemson struggled last season and its defense was hurt due to injuries, which was the reason the Tigers were last in defensive passing efficiency in the ACC.
Quarterback DJ Uiagalelei returns after having a mediocre season in which he threw nine touchdown passes but was intercepted 10 times. Cade Klubnik is Clemson's future quarterback but could see action this season. Clemson's receivers are led by Joseph Ngata and Beaux Collins, who last season was second in receptions with 31. The only big loss is Justyn Ross, who is now playing in the NFL.
The running game will be strong for Clemson. Last season the Tigers averaged 4.5 yards per carry and 160 yards per game. Kobe Pace and Will Shipley are both back. Last season, two combined to rush for almost 1,400 yards with 17 TDs. The offensive line is excellent in pass protection but was below average in run-blocking. Will Putnam returns as the starting center and Jordan McFadden is considered one of the nation's best left tackles.
Clemson's defense is expected to once again be very strong. Last season the Tigers were eighth in the nation overall and first in the ACC. Clemson gave up the second-fewest points in the country. The defensive line will be led by Bryan Bresee at tackle, while Myles Murphy will be their lead pass rusher and Tyler Davis a talented run stopper.'
Trenton Simpson will be the leader of the linebacker corps on the outside and on the inside will be Jeremiah Trotter amongst others. The secondary will be almost completely new. Andrew Mukaba returns and is an excellent tackler. Andrew Booth and Mario Goodrich are no longer the cornerbacks but Sheridan Jones and Nate Wiggins should seamlessly fit in.
Free NCAAF Pick:
Over 10.5