Clemson began fall camp practices on Friday.
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CLEMSON – I like this better.
Clemson returned to the practice fields behind the Reeves complex on Friday afternoon, the first practice of fall camp. Temperatures hovered in the mid-90s, but the skies were a brilliant blue, the grass was a deep green, and the Tigers looked more like the Tigers we’re used to seeing than at any time last season.
We were allowed to watch the first seven (and part of an eighth) practice periods, and even though it was just helmets and shorts, we got a few notes to pass.
I’ll start with what this team looks like: This team resembles teams from a few years ago in terms of athleticism and size. So many players got hurt last season, yes, but this group looks like a great team. From defensive line to offensive line to running backs to linebackers, it’s an impressive group. Yes, shorts only, no live contact. But this group is more like the 2018 group than any other team since then.
Center ryan linthicum he looks the best he has since he’s been here (something Swinney mentioned in his press conference), and Dietrick Pennington it doesn’t look like it weighs 360 pounds. I was told that his body fat percentage is below 20 percent.
Another that stood out, from the beginning, was the linebacker. trenton simpson. One of the first drills run by linebackers coach/defensive coordinator Wesley Goodwin had defenders line up with their hands on the ground and then walk out of the center, simulating reaching for the quarterback. Simpson, who weighed in at 240 pounds on Thursday, was explosive. That whole group of linebackers will make you sit up and take notice.
*Not everything was great: Swinney mentioned that he has questions about Friday’s punter, and during the time we were allowed to watch, none of the punters stood out.
*The Atlanta Falcons had the assistance of a scout.
*As I walked in, I passed Georgetown’s lorenzo bromell, who played at Clemson. The defensive end played for the Dolphins and Vikings, Raiders and Giants, and is remembered for breaking Peyton Manning’s jaw in 2001. He was in town and took a tour of the facility.
*The first team offensive line was, from left to right, Jordan McFadden, marcus tate, putnam, Bryn TuckerY walker parks. The second team during the tempo periods consisted of Tristan Leigh, John Williams, trent howard, mitchell mayesY blake miller.
* punt returners were Beaux-Collins, Will Shipley, Hamp Greene, drew swinney, Troy StellatoY anthony williams.
*Swinney spent time with wide receivers, along with Tyler Grisham, teaching “the best play in football”, which was a technique coming off the line. Receivers began the drill with their hands behind their backs and footwork was key.
*Starting wide receivers were brannon specter, jose ngataand Beaux-Collins. Jake Briningstool he ran out first at tight end.
* attack player DJ Uiagalelei he sprinted from the indoor facility to the practice fields and then sprinted between drills. It is noticeable that she moves better without the extra weight and all the braces. Back Cade Kubnik he was impressive during passing drills, and it’s obvious he’s more comfortable with the offense.
* Watched the defensive line for a few minutes – you’ll always be impressed by guys like bryan bresee Y myles murphybut it is obvious that the younger players like it Payton Page Y three williams they are ready to take the next step. Williams has toned up his body and he looks explosive.
* There were 17 members of the dabo swinney All-Access Fantasy Camp available. The 17 pay $10,000 each for access to practices and meetings. Proceeds go to the All In Foundation. In the past, members played soccer, but that has changed to a more inclusive event.
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