In last season’s College Football National Championship Game, the Clemson Tigers took care of business against the Alabama Crimson Tide, winning an instant classic. Unfortunately for the Tigers, they lose a ton of talent off that team for the 2017 season, including their star quarterback, DeShaun Watson. There is no clear choice to replace Watson just yet, though all signs point to it being junior Kelly Bryant.
We will get a good look at the Clemson Tigers early in the season, as they take on the Auburn Tigers on September 9. They do get to play the Tigers in Death Valley, but it will definitely be a test for whoever takes over for Watson. The Tigers also have to replace guys like wide receiver Mike Williams, and lineback Ben Boulware, who was the heart and soul of their defense.
Head coach Dabo Swinney has beaten the Crimson Tide before, so he is not going to be afraid of whoever Nick Saban puts on the field. That can go a long way when you are talking about college football players, as confidence is going to be key against Alabama. The Tide are replacing a ton of talent as well, and both teams have had some solid recruiting classes lately.
Deon Cain and Hunter Renfrow return at wide receiver, and Renfrow is the man who won the game for the Tigers back in January. The Tigers should be solid up front on defense, which is going to be a must against a tough running Alabama team. If they can get past Florida State on November 11, they should be in line to grab one of the four College Football Playoff spots for the third year in a row.