Clemson Football: Sophomores primed for big year in 2017
The Clemson football program is coming off of arguably the best season in school history. Now, Dabo Swinney and his staff are tasked with eluding complacency. Staying hungry is difficult for anyone after winning a championship, however, Clemson has a few underclassmen ready to prove themselves.
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The Tigers have a group of sophomores primed for a breakout in 2017. Let’s start it off with the best of the group.
Dexter Lawrence (DT):
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While I would not consider Dexter Lawrence a breakout candidate, that does not mean that he cannot improve upon his dominant freshman season. I expect Lawrence to be one of the most disruptive defensive lineman in the country. Having rising junior Christian Wilkins there to push Lawrence each and every day will keep him sharp.
Trayvon Mullen (CB):
Coming out of high school Trayvon Mullen was one of the top prospects in the country according to 247sports. Upon arriving at Clemson, Mullen was buried on the depth chart behind the likes of Cordea Tankersley, Ryan Carter, and Marcus Edmond. However, as the season progressed Mullen began to see the field more consistently. I expect Mullen to pick up where he left off in 2017 and lock down a starting spot in the Tigers secondary.
Tavien Feaster (RB):
Feaster was arguably Clemson’s most heralded recruit entering the 2016 season. Unfortunately, Feaster was not able to gain any serious playing time last season, due to the talent that Clemson already had at running back. Now that Wayne Gallman is gone, I expect Feaster to be a focal point of this Tigers offense. Feaster has the speed and elusiveness to be a game breaker in 2017.
Tre Lamar (LB):
Tre Lamar may not have played much in 2016, but, don’t let that confuse you he is going to be a force on Clemson’s defense in 2017. At 6’4, 240 lbs, Lamar may be the most naturally gifted linebacker that Dabo Swinney has ever had at Clemson. Tre Lamar will be all over the field in 2017.
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The Clemson football program has a host of other Sophomores that are going to log a substantial amount of snaps in 2017. Other players worth mentioning are, Cornell Powell, Diondre Overton, and K’Von Wallace.