2013 Outlook - Clemson

Dabo Swinney is one of my favorite coaches in college football, and he is entering his fifth year in Clemson.  Each of the last few season, Clemson has been on the brink of taking that next step to becoming part of the National Title discussion.  This year's team, is also on the brink, and they are serious consideration for my "Sneaky" pick of the year.

JR QB Tajh Boyd had a great year last season in his first year as a starter.  If he can avoid the same plague that has afflicted second year QBs in Clemson during recent history, he could really put up special number in 2013.  He has the potential to avoid the slump, considering the weapons at his disposal.  SR RB Andre Ellington is a good back, coming off a thousand yard season, and his backup, SO Mike Bellamy has a lot of potential.  The primary wide outs are both sensational.  JR DeAndre "Nuke" Hopkins and SO Sammy Watkins are going to be very difficult for opponents to cover.  Watkins is one of the very best anywhere in the country.  The o-line is young, except for C Dalton Freeman.  He brings athleticism and experience to a line, that will really need it.

Over the past two years, Clemson has been the best pass rushing team in the ACC, but DaQuan Bowers and Andre Branch have both been drafted into the NFL.  Except for SR DE Malliciah Goodman, this is a very young defensive front.  I cannot see them replicating the output from a pass rush perspective, but the may be able to be more disciplined, which may offset some of the loss.  At linebacker, super sophomores OLB Tony Steward and MLB Stephone Anthony both could emerge as stars in the ACC if they continue to develop.  The secondary is an experienced unit, but the most exciting player is their youngest.  SO CB Bashaud Breeland is a fast, athletic former wide receiver who if he continues to build his technique could be on the draft radar in the next year or two.

Clemson has a talented roster, and if they can put it all together this year, they will surprise some people.  I think this is a sneaky good team, definitely worth watching.