Clemson Football: Q&A with Syracuse expert Paul A. Esden Jr.

SYRACUSE, NY - NOVEMBER 19: Head coach Dino Babers of the Syracuse Orange congratulates senior players before the game against the Florida State Seminoles on November 19, 2016 at The Carrier Dome in Syracuse, New York. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images)
SYRACUSE, NY - NOVEMBER 19: Head coach Dino Babers of the Syracuse Orange congratulates senior players before the game against the Florida State Seminoles on November 19, 2016 at The Carrier Dome in Syracuse, New York. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images)
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Anthony Messenger –

Who are some offensive and defensive players to watch for the Orange?

Paul A. Esden Jr. –

Offensively there are several in the Orange is the New Fast cabinet. Starting off with the NCAA leader in nearly ever major receiving category and that’s Steve Ishmael. Look at the tape from last week this guy is a man among boys. Although he’s not perfect by any means and obviously his numbers are padded by the system. He has a propensity of disappearing on offense and you can’t just lose one of your best players in the middle of the game.

Erv Philips is another dangerous weapon who had a career day against the Wolfpack two weeks ago. He’s versatile: can play in the slot, on the outside, in the backfield, so he’s a guy to watch out for.

On defense SU is led by their linebacking corps. It’s the deepest positional unit on the team and the most formidable. A future NFL’er is Zaire Franklin who’s been a captain for the last two years and is the signal caller for the defense. He’s fast, instinctive, and always at the right place at the right time as it pertains to be around the football.

Next: Trevor Lawrence approaching Deshaun Watson's passing record

Be sure to check out insidetheloudhouse.com, you can also follow Esden Jr. on twitter @BoyGreen25 .

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