3. Which Running Back Replaces Wayne Gallman?
Most Clemson fans would probably agree that Wayne Gallman was never what anyone would define as spectacular. If a running back is an exceptional talent, he tends to get the shine that the likes of Dalvin Cook and Leonard Fournette got last season. While that may be the case, he was still an integral piece in the Clemson offense. Gallman produced over 2,600 yards and 30 touchdowns on over 500 carries combined in the past two seasons.
That production obviously needs to be replaced. Not only is it simply scoring and yardage that they need, but the run game may be more pivotal to this team than it was with Gallman. With Deshaun Watson ready to take snaps in the NFL, the Tigers are going to have inexperience at quarterback. The best way to help out a young signal-caller in that position is to give them the luxury of a balanced offense and a rushing attack to fall back on.
The question that Swinney faces is which running back they feel comfortable shouldering the load, or if they’ll run by committee. C.J. Fuller, Tavien Feaster and Adam Choice have all proven to be capable in limited work. With that said, it remains to be seen if they’re ready to step up and fill the hole in the backfield left by Gallman’s departure. We’ll get a better idea of both Clemson’s approach to the position and as to which player is in the driver’s seat to take over that role on Saturday.