From the Pulpit- Thoughts Heading Into Camp

It won’t be long now…..

• The Kyler McMichael transfer doesn’t come as a huge surprise. Especially after how well Derion Kendrick has performed after moving over from receiver. What does stand out is the timing and how quickly it all went down. In less than 24 hours the entire process has taken place, and something seems off with that. Either way, good luck to the kid.
• Earlier this week the team confirmed that Braden Galloway would in fact be eligible for any postseason games, provided they don’t take place in early December. Let’s face it, if they are playing an early December bowl game, something went horribly wrong. Regardless, why is Galloway eligible and not Zach Giella not? Could be lots of reasons. Granted, Giella was always a depth guy and likely wouldn’t have seen much action anyways, but it’s something to ponder.
• For years, it seemed as if one of the hottest topics heading into camp was the OL. How there were always concerns somewhere along the line. Either talent related or depth related. The Tigers just lost one of the best LT in program history, and it’s something you’ve rarely seen mentioned throughout the summer. If you needed a sign that this program has arrived, there it is.
• Last season, Justyn Ross spent the first half of the season getting acclimated to the college game. During the second half we started to see exactly what he brings to the table and then in the playoff he burst onto the scene, becoming a household name. All without starting a single game. Ross has gotten plenty of pub this offseason, and in 2019 we will see him and Tee Higgins on the field together. While Ross has been getting much of the attention, expect Tee to have a monster junior campaign. The kind that could easily catapult him into first round status in next year’s NFL Draft.
• We found out last week during all the media sessions that Nyles Pinckney and Jordan Williams were both fully recovered and ready to go after both missed the spring with injuries. One of the biggest keys to the 2019 season will be keeping both those guys that way. The Tigers have very little depth at DT, and it is a position they just can’t afford any injuries at.
• In recent years, we have gotten used to seeing Clemson rotate three running backs. With the transfer of Tavien Feaster, expect this to become much more of a two back system in 2019. Behind Travis Etienne and Lyn J Dixon there’s just not much experience. Former walk on Darrien Rencher will get the first crack at that third spot, while true freshman Michael Dukes and Chez Mellusi will both get plenty of opportunities to show what they can do. Expect one of those freshman to redshirt, while the other goes on to play. With the new four game redshirt rule, we should see both at some point on the field.
• Dabo Swinney held his annual ladies clinic yesterday in Clemson. Once again it was a resounding success as over $400K was raised for the head coaches All In Foundation. Check out some highlights from the event at the link here.

Let us know any thoughts or concerns you might have in the comments.