Clemson football: 5 breakout players to watch in 2020

TALLAHASSEE, FL - OCTOBER 27: Defensive End Xavier Thomas #3 of the Clemson Tigers in action during the game against the Florida State Seminoles at Doak Campbell Stadium on Bobby Bowden Field on October 27, 2018 in Tallahassee, Florida. The #2 Ranked Clemson Tigers defeated the Florida State Seminoles 59 to 10. (Photo by Don Juan Moore/Getty Images) /

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Clemson football (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

Clemson football breakout candidate No. 2: Joseph Ngata, WR

Yes, we have another wide receiver making the list. With the departure of Tee Higgins and the injury to Justyn Ross, no one should be surprised about that. But while Ladson has the potential to step into a larger role and produce in a prolific offense, Joseph Ngata has the apparent opportunity to go from little-used player to bonafide star catching passes from Trevor Lawrence.

As a freshman in the 2019 season, Ngata showed his potential when he got on the field. All told, he played in 13 games and registered 17 receptions on the year. He took those catches for 240 yards (14.1 yards per receptions) and three touchdowns. It’s clear that he has the skillset to be a threat in the vertical passing game and in the red zone with his frame.

Measuring in at 6-foot-3 and 215 pounds, Ngata is in the mold of Higgins in Ross in that his build alone presents a problem for opposing defensive backs. He’s bigger, longer, stronger and just as athletic as those matching up with him, giving him the distinct advantage to win in 50-50 situations but also the length to get a stride ahead down the field.

While Amari Rodgers might be the favorite target in terms of numbers, it would not be a shock to see Ngata lead the Tigers in receiving yards and touchdowns for the 2020 season. His ability to attack deep and win in the red zone with his contested-catch ability give him that opportunity, especially playing with a quarterback like Lawrence.

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