Clemson football has one of the best defensive line units in the country, featuring two elite defensive ends. Austin Bryant and Clelin Ferrell are both close to posting double digit sacks and tackles for loss on the year.
Leading up to the start of the 2017 season, I discussed the possibility of both Austin Bryant and Clelin Ferrell recording 20+ tackles for loss this season. Not only are they on pace to post 20+ TFLs, they are also close to recording 10+ sacks each.
Coming into the year, Ferrell was gaining much more attention than Bryant, mainly due to him missing majority of the 2016 season with a foot injury. Through the first 10 games of this season, you can make an argument that Bryant has been the better of the two.
At the moment, Bryant has 7.5 sacks and 14.5 tackles for loss. While he is not as twitchy as Ferrell, he is strong against the run and has displayed freakish athleticism, nearly recording two interceptions on the season.
Ferrell has also recorded 7.5 sacks thus far, to go along with his 14 tackles for loss. He and Bryant are nearly identical statistically.
Down the stretch
With contests versus, the Citadel and South Carolina to close out the season, Bryant and Ferrell have a good chance at reaching 10+ sacks and 20+ tfls. With all due respect to the Citadel, their offensive line is no match for Clemson’s dominant front seven.
Similarly, South Carolina ranks 84th in sacks allowed, giving up 23 thus far. The Tigers on the other hand, rank 1st in the nation in sacks, with 38 on the year. Looking at those numbers, Bryant and Ferrell should have a field day against the Gamecocks.
Clemson’s play against the run will help Bryant and Ferrell reach double digit sacks as well. The Tigers are allowing just 112 rushing yards per game. As such, opponents are forced into obvious passing situations. This allows Bryant and Ferrell to pin their ears back and rush the passer.
Next: Game time announced for Clemson vs. South Carolina
Clemson has already solidified their place in the ACC Championship versus Miami. If the Tigers’ win their next three contests, they will likely earn a spot in the College Football Playoff. All this means more opportunities for Bryant and Ferrell to fill up the stat sheet.