Clemson Football 2013 Spring Wrap Up

Spring Summary

The big summary from Clemson’s spring was progress, especially with the defense. While there has been some turnover on offense, the defense is what will define Clemson’s success this season. While they are still missing some talent in the secondary, the unit should improve with a second year under defensive coordinator Brent Venables.

It is hard to say if any questions were answered because so much of spring is about the fundamentals. Hopefully the secondary has improved enough to give Clemson a better chance late in games, but until September no one will really know.

Name a few players who could have breakout seasons

One guy who has to stand out if Clemson has a hope at a national title is Travis Blanks. The sophomore will be asked to step up in a secondary that is lacking in talent. If Blanks puts it all together then Clemson could be in for a special year.

Martavius Bryant is another name. The wide receiver has always had the talent, but hasn’t always put in the effort to become a starter. With the wide receiver spot alongside Sammy Watkins open, I think Bryant manages to put it all together to seize the starting spot.

Grade each position group & special teams

QB: A   With Boyd entrenched as the starter this is easily the most talented position group at Clemson. The loss of Chad Kelly due to an ACL tear is unfortunate, but last years backup Cole Stoudt is more than capable of running the offense should Tajh get hurt

RB: B

WR: B+

TE: D

OL: B- 

DL: B 

LB: C  Despite a plethora of talent, it has been many many moons since Clemson linebackers were a dominant force. With the DL rounding into form, the linebackers need to step up to help reduce the pressure on a poor secondary.

DB: C  This may be the most talent deficient group at Clemson, and all eyes will be on Travis Blanks in his second year, as well as true freshman MacKenzie Alexander.

ST: B-  Last yea Clemson gave up some big plays to FSU and USC on special teams, both losses. Fixing coverage units will be one of the easiest ways Clemson can keep their dreams of a national title alive.

Are there any “surprises” we can expect from this team?

I think this team is a little higher in the rankings than they should be. The Clemson OL and DL still need to step up more often, last year the only game they really showed up for was LSU.

While we all hope Sammy Watkins will return to his freshman form, someone needs to replace DeAndre Hopkins in the lineup. Everything is in position to make a run at an undefeated season, but Clemson still needs to prove they can win the big games they are favored in.

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Brian Lewis of Shakin the Southland provided the information for our Clemson Football 2013 Spring Wrap Up.  For more Clemson football information, commentary and analysis, you can follow Brian on Twitter @Brian_Goodison.

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