Clemson Football: Dixon adds more explosion to loaded RB room

CHARLOTTE, NC - DECEMBER 02: Adam Choice
CHARLOTTE, NC - DECEMBER 02: Adam Choice

The future is bright for Clemson football at running back. The Tigers have a dynamic duo of tailbacks in Tavien Feaster (So) and Travis Etienne (Fr). Incoming freshman, Lyn-J Dixon will add to Clemson’s deep stable of backs.

Dabo Swinney secured perhaps his best recruiting class ever this past week. The Tigers were able to land a few uncommitted prospects, including three-star running back, Lyn-J Dixon.

Hailing from Butler, Georgia, Dixon gives Clemson yet another play-maker who was once committed to the Tennessee Volunteers.

Dixon’s strengths

At 5-foot-10, 178 pounds, Dixon can stand to gain muscle, which won’t be a problem in Clemson’s rigorous strength and conditioning program. When you consider the weight he was playing at in high school, it makes Dixon’s tape all the more impressive.

Co-offensive coordinator and running backs coach, Tony Elliott is loading up on versatile talent. Dixon has no glaring weaknesses. He shows the ability to catch the ball out of the backfield, run in between the tackles and make defenders miss in space.

He might not play as a true freshman, but, make no mistake Dixon is going to be a ball player sooner, rather than later. His ability to stop on a dime and accelerate after the cut is special.

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There’s no denying that Etienne and Feaster are two of the most explosive backs in the country. That being said, Dixon may be the most shifty of the three coming out of high school. In the same breadth, I’m not sure that he has the elite speed that Etienne and Feaster posses.

After breaking down Dixon’s film, he displayed surprising power. He isn’t afraid to cut up the field and earn the tough yards and arm tackles aren’t going to cut it against Dixon. His balance helps him to break the long one on plays where the average back would be tripped up for a short gain.

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Tony Elliott continues to be flex his talent evaluating muscles on the recruiting trail. Hats off to him for closing on Dixon. If you think I’m blowing smoke, take a look at Dixon’s film for yourself.

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