Clemson Football: Freshman tailback Etienne steals the show in scrimmage
True freshman tailback, Travis Etienne capped off a strong week of camp with an impressive showing in Clemson football’s final scrimmage.
Hailing from Jennings, Louisiana, Etienne joined Clemson’s 2017 recruiting class just two short weeks before National Signing Day. While he didn’t come in with the expectations that some of the other true freshman may have, Etienne is quickly proving to be a special talent.
During the Clemson football program’s final scrimmage of fall camp, Etienne continued to break off long runs. It seems that every person that spoke to the media, whether it be coach or player, following the scrimmage, spoke of Etienne.
Quotes
Starting things off with head coach Dabo Swinney who, according to Clemson247sports stated, “Travis has been the surprise of the preseason considering he did not get here until the summer. It seems he breaks a long run every day. He is going to be a dynamic player.”
In speaking with Tigernet.com following the scrimmage, Tavien Feaster couldn’t help but smile when talking about Etienne offering, “Travis, he’s talented, he’s really talented.” Feaster’s endorsement of Etienne is perhaps most impressive considering they play the same position.
Starting strong safety, Tanner Muse also spoke with Tigernet.com regarding Etienne, commenting, “Travis, number 9, he had a couple runs that were very well. When he gets in open space he’s a tough guy to tackle.”
Impression
Etienne is making a serious case for playing time in 2017. It’s understood that being able to pass protect is vital to getting on the field as a running back at Clemson. Be that as it may, Etienne appears to be the most dangerous runner that the Tigers have entering 2017.
With the uncertainty at quarterback, Clemson needs to have a legitimate ground game. Being able to effectively run the football, not only controls the tempo of the game, but it opens up play action down the field. Opponents would have no choice but to dedicate more defenders to the box, leaving Clemson’s talented wide receivers in one-on-one matchups.
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It is highly unlikely that Etienne is the starter come week one. However, he should factor heavily into the Tigers’ offense in 2017. Aside from Feaster, Etienne is the most explosive back that Clemson has.
CJ Fuller is a bruising, downhill runner and Adam Choice hasn’t been the same since tearing his ACL. A three headed monster of Fuller, Feaster and Etienne sounds most appealing entering the season opener.
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By years end Feaster and Etienne may be the explosive one-two punch that Clemson has been in search of. Only time will tell. What say you Tigers fans?