3 flaws that could keep Clemson from the National Championship

2. Offseason troubles

We cannot pretend that the offseason injuries will not burden Clemson. Trevor Lawrence’s top target Justyn Ross, suffered a “congenital fusion” in his spine, according to coach Swinney, that may not only risk his season but his career. Ross has been instrumental to the Tigers’ success and will represent a massive loss for the offense. Magnify that by the fact that Lawrence already lost his other top target, Tee Higgins, to the NFL.

While the health scene is difficult to predict, we cannot ignore the beast of COVID-19 either. Clemson has been one of the hardest-hit colleges, up to 37 total positive cases among the team. While all this could diminish come fall, that is unlikely, and at the very least, it will keep players off the field for much of the summer, losing out on preparation for the fall season. Not to mention coach Swinney being under quite a bit of fire from both former players and those throughout the media for some of his recent behavior these past few weeks.

The offseason has complicated things quite a bit for Clemson. Don’t be surprised if its repercussions persist into the regular season, jeopardizing their shot at a National Championship.