Clemson Football: 5 Players to watch vs. Kent State

Justin Rankin (So) Wide Reciever

For Kent State to have any chance against Clemson, they must create plays down the field. Sophomore wide out, Justin Rankin is the Golden Flashes’ best deep threat. As a true freshman Rankin was Kent State’s leading receiver with 28 receptions for 335 yards and one touchdown.

Those numbers are not spectacular for a leading receiver, however, that is indicative of Kent State’s ineffective passing attack, rather, than Rankin’s ability. In fact, Rankin isn’t even a receiver at all, he is more of a do-it-all running back.

Standing 5-foot-9, 205 pounds Rankin has a low center of gravity and good patience with the ball in his hands. His versatility is what makes him dangerous to the Tigers. It will be difficult for a linebacker to cover him in space.

Kent State will need Rankin to not only create explosive plays, but, also to dictate the tempo of the game. As a running back, Rankin’s performance directly impact’s ball control and the pace of the game overall.