ACC Football 2017: Biggest x-factor for every team

TAMPA, FL - JANUARY 09: Clemson Tigers defensive end Clelin Ferrell (99) is blocked by Alabama Crimson Tide offensive lineman Cam Robinson (74) during the 2017 College Football National Championship Game between the Clemson Tigers and Alabama Crimson Tide on January 9, 2017, at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, FL. Clemson defeated Alabama 35-31. (Photo by Mark LoMoglio/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

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PITTSBURGH, PA – NOVEMBER 19: Quadree Henderson #10 of the Pittsburgh Panthers in action during the game against the Duke Blue Devils at Heinz Field on November 19, 2016 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images) /

Pittsburgh – Quadree Henderson

Quadree Henderson is no one trick pony. In fact, it may be easier to just name what Henderson can’t do! Henderson made the All-ACC team as a special teams ace as he can return kicks while also playing some wide receiver and running back. The 5-foot-9, 190-pound spark plug is a playmaker that truly makes him Pittsburgh’s x-factor. Never over look the importance of special teams as Henderson’s impact can give the Panthers great field position to start off drives.

Henderson scored 10 touchdowns in 2016. One came on a punt return, three on a kick return, one on a reception, and five rushing touchdowns. If that’s not versatility, I don’t know what is. Moving into 2017, it’s hard to predict what’s next for him. With former USC quarterback Max Browne coming to town, Henderson’s tricks on offense could become a valuable weapon.

Browne was the starter for USC to open the year in 2016 but was quickly replaced by sensational redshirt freshman Sam Darnold. You may remember Alabama putting up over 50 points on USC in the season opener a year ago after Browne failed to show up. The former five-star recruit USC recruit just never got it going and got lost in the shuffle behind Cody Kessler and most recently Darnold. Now Browne heads to Pittsburgh who seems to be the clear favorite for the job with Nate Peterman off to the NFL. This Pittsburgh offense could quietly become pretty dynamic. By the way, Jester Weah is pretty electrifying himself averaging 24.2 yards per catch in 2016.

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