Jan 2, 2015; St. Petersburg, FL, USA; Team Highlight defensive tackle Christian Wilkins (42) returns a blocked extra point for a score against Team Armour during the first half of the 2015 Under Armour All-America Game at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-USA TODAY Sports
Bold Prediction #1: Christian Wilkins proves he is starter-worthy.
This pick got a little less bold when D.J. Reader decided to take a leave of absence away from football, but I believe this will be true even if Reader returns early in the season. Christian Wilkins is a football player. What I mean by that is that he is athletic, strong, and has a great football IQ, which is why he is competing to fill Reader’s void.
More from Clemson Football
- Clemson Football: Q&A with Florida State experts at Chop Chat
- Clemson Football needs their biggest stars to shine against Florida State
- Clemson Football: Receiver by committee could work for the Tigers
- No reason for Clemson Football to fear a Seminole takeover
- Clemson Football: One Quick Thing – The Tigers don’t see cupcakes
Wilkins will prove a lot of pundits wrong when he takes the field and will become a viable option for the Tigers to use in the years to come. As a true-freshman, however, the 300-pounder will prove to be a “man” on the football field and yes, he will compete and beat senior offensive linemen in the trenches this season. I’m sure of this pick coming to fruition and I would be shocked if Wilkins isn’t on the All-ACC Freshman team at the end of the season.
Next: Bold Prediction #2