Clemson Football: 5 best offenses the Tigers will face in 2017
1. Auburn
I expect Auburn to have one of the best offensive attacks in the country in 2017. Under Gus Malzahn the Tigers have always had a bruising rushing attack, but, they have lacked an able passer as of late. With Jarrett Stidhman on the plains, Auburn has secured one of the best quarterbacks in the country.
In Auburn’s two National Championship runs, they were able to balance out their explosive running game with play-action passes down the field. The Tigers have the receivers in place to stretch defensives vertically. Kyle Davis, Eli Stove and Darius Slayton have the makings of a special trio of wideouts. Nate Craig-Myers is a name to keep an eye on as well.
On the ground, Auburn has a modern day Jerome Bettis in Kamryn Pettway. At 6-foot, 240 pounds Pettway sets the tone for this Tigers offense by running through and around opposing defenders. Serving as the lightning to Pettway’s thunder is junior Kerryon Johnson. Johnson is more nimble and explosive than Pettway with the ball in his hands.
What separates Auburn from the other programs on this list is their offensive line. The Tigers return one of the most talented and experienced groups in the country, comprised of Deon Mix, Braden Smith, Austin Golson, Marquel Harrell, and Darius James.
Auburn’s solid offensive line, paired with their exceptional talent at the skill positions will be scary for opposing defenses in 2017.