Three Storylines to Follow as Clemson Opens Fall Camp

The Clemson Tigers are back in action, and as fall camp opens, the excitement is palpable online for fans and players in the program. Today, we will have a chance to hear from Dabo Swinney for the final time before Clemson hits the practice fields. 

With a fresh season ahead, here are three major storylines that we will be watching closely, as they could significantly impact the 2023 team's performance and success.

No. 1: Garrett Riley's Offensive Overhaul

In January, Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney made a bold move by bringing in Garrett Riley as the team's new offensive coordinator. Riley, who previously guided TCU to the College Football Playoff National Championship as OC, boasts an offensive system that averaged 455 yards and 37.4 points per game, ranking 9th best in the country last season. More importantly, Riley’s offense led the nation in 50+ yard plays and a lack of explosive plays defined the Tiger offense the past two seasons.

Riley's offensive philosophy is centered on creating space and instilling confidence in his playmakers. "Not that we have all the answers, but we just have a system that we believe in, and I think it's just really going to bring out the best of our players," Riley emphasized.

By implementing this system, Riley aims to unlock the full potential of Clemson's talented roster. If the wide receivers can perform at a high level, Riley's offense might explode in Tiger Town.

"I am excited to come into a program like this and implement what we believe in and train the guys the way we train them," Riley said last month.

Now, as the Tigers prepare to hit the field, Riley is eager to see the players progress and find comfort in executing the Air Raid offense with confidence. Clemson has the talent on offense to showcase a significant transformation under Riley's guidance.

David Grooms

Sophomore quarterback Cade Klubnik will play a huge role in Clemson’s offensive success in 2023.

No. 2: The Klubnik Transition and the Running Back Duo

One of the most critical aspects of Clemson's fall camp will be transitioning from D.J. Uiagalelei to Cade Klubnik at the quarterback position. Klubnik's performance in the ACC Championship Game against North Carolina last season showcased his potential, displaying poise and composure beyond his years. Then there were freshman moments in the Orange Bowl that were costly for the Tigers in Klubnik’s first career start.

If Klubnic can maintain the pace and fluidity we saw against the Tar Heels, the offense under Riley could skyrocket.

"All this stuff, as expected, especially with Cade, is already becoming kind of muscle memory. It's not sitting there thinking and asking a bunch of questions just because it's all so new to him, right? I knew that would happen,” Riley said of Klubnic. “This is the fun part for us as coaches to really see all these guys start to click, becoming comfortable and confident in what they're doing.”

Adding to the offensive arsenal, Clemson boasts two exceptional running backs in Will Shipley and Phil Mafah. Their combination of speed, agility, and power adds depth and versatility to the Tigers' backfield. If Klubnik can seamlessly lead the offense, and Shipley and Mafah continue to shine, Clemson's offensive potential could reach new heights in 2023.

Clemson Sports Talk

Clemson Defensive Coordinator Wes Goodwin is under pressure to showcase marked improvement this season.

No. 3: Defense Enters Year Two Under Wes Goodwin

Clemson's defense enters a second season under the leadership of defensive coordinator Wes Goodwin, who is determined to make significant strides. Goodwin emphasized his growth as a teacher and the importance of fundamentals during the summer.

"I feel like, as a teacher, I've grown tremendously,” Goodwin said recently. “I feel like practice was emphasizing turnovers, emphasizing fundamentals, just being better in that area.”

With veterans Tyler Davis and Ruke Orhorhoro returning to anchor the interior defensive line, Clemson's defensive front promises to be a force to be reckoned with. The team also boasts two standout linebackers Jeremiah Trotter Jr. and Barrett Carter, who are widely regarded as two of the best in the nation.

With Goodwin's increased confidence and the continued growth of the defense, Clemson fans can expect a more formidable unit that will give opposing offenses a tough time all season long.

Clemson's 2023 fall camp is filled with promise and excitement as the Tigers prepare for the upcoming season. With Garrett Riley's offensive overhaul, the transition to Cade Klubnik, and the growth of the defense under Wes Goodwin, the Tigers have all the ingredients to put together a special season.

The countdown to kickoff has begun!

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