Clemson tops Sports Illustrated's Preseason Poll

Across the country preseason polls and power rankings continue to trickle in as we head towards the 2018 college football season, and Sports Illustrated has the Tigers sitting at the top of their poll. 

Alabama checked in at No. 2 while Wisconsin took the No. 3 spot.

Earlier today, SI's Andy Staples tweeted a picture of Clemson's defensive line featured on one of Sports Illustrated's College Football Preview magazines. 

Here's what SI had to say about the Tigers.

1. CLEMSON TIGERS

Last year: 12–2 (7–1 ACC); Lost to Alabama in College Football Playoff semifinal

SI Top 100 players: (9): DL Christian Wilkins (No. 3), DE Clelin Ferrell (No. 7), DT Dexter Lawrence (No. 10), DE Austin Bryant (No. 32), OL Mitch Hyatt (No. 37), LB Kendall Joseph (No. 57), CB Trayvon Mullen (No. 63), WR Tee Higgins (No. 69), RB Travis Etienne (No. 94)

X-Factor: With nearly every other piece in place to contend for a national title, the choice of quarterback may determine whether Clemson reaches its goal. Like Alabama last year, the Tigers have an accomplished incumbent starter (Kelly Bryant) and a freshman generating buzz (Trevor Lawrence). The Crimson Tide didn’t make a QB switch until halftime of the national championship—and then it made all the difference. Lawrence throws a better deep ball; Bryant has earned loyalty after going 12–2 last year. Dabo Swinney has said the job is Bryant’s but has left the door open for Lawrence. Don’t be shocked if it’s still ajar well into September. — Andy Staples

Click here to see the full rankings.