Clemson Football Analysis: The Secret Weapon of the Defensive Line

GLENDALE, AZ - DECEMBER 31: Defensive end Clelin Ferrell
GLENDALE, AZ - DECEMBER 31: Defensive end Clelin Ferrell

The 2017 Clemson football DL is expected to be one of the best in the country, but there is one starter that doesn’t get near the praise he deserves.

Clemson football begins its’ 2017 season in just nine days.

One of the position groups garnering the most praise is the defensive line for the Tigers. While everyone mentions these names, I believe no one truly understands the talent Clemson football truly possesses on this defense.

It all starts with Christian Wilkins and Dexter Lawrence.

Pundits are proud to mention these two names on the Tigers’ line.

Then everyone begins to go to the defensive ends. The “trendy” pick for those wishing to offer analysis on the Clemson football team always bring up Clelin Ferrell and his ability.

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Many bold predictions have Ferrell as the sack-leader of the ACC and some even have him as an All-American before it’s all said and done. Of course, Ferrell deserves the praise he is garnering.

But, it seems everyone has forgotten about his counterpart, a man named Austin Bryant.

Bryant missed the majority of the 2016 Clemson football season due to a foot injury. Before the season began, he was expected to not only be a starter, but one of the best defensive ends in the ACC.

He never truly recovered before the season despite getting some playing time midseason.

But, mark my words Clemson football fans, Austin Bryant is back. He looks as if he is in the best shape of his life and is playing at an extremely high level. He was extremely physical against Oklahoma in the Orange Bowl two years ago and that is going to be important going forward.

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Bryant not only has the ability to rush the passer, but can also be a huge help in the run game.

While everyone else is drooling over the other names on the defensive line, and for good reason, don’t forget about Austin Bryant. He’ll be wearing No. 7 this season instead of No. 91 and could make a huge impact for Clemson football in 2017.