ESPN Analyst Kirk Herbstreit released his favorites to win several categories as part of his annual “Herbie Awards.” Several Clemson football players were listed as finalists.
It’s clear that analysts have a respect for Clemson football.
You can see that when you hear them talk about the elite of College Football, except for a handful of agenda-based talking heads led by Greg McElroy.
But, other than those few, everyone with an unbiased brain can see that the Tigers are one of the best two teams in the nation.
ESPN Analyst Kirk Herbstreit released his favorites and finalists to win several categories as part of his annual “Herbie Awards.”
Here’s a look at the Clemson football players that come into this season as finalists for several awards.
Ultimate Game Changer:
The entire Clemson defensive line is listed as one unit as the “ultimate game changer.” They join Bryce Love of Stanford, AJ Brown of Ole Miss, Nick Bosa of Ohio State and Jeffery Simmons of Mississippi State.
This very first category shows just how much respect Herbstreit has for the Clemson defensive line to list them as one unit. It’s tough to single one guy or another because this unit is just so strong together.
Most Exciting Player:
Travis Etienne joins a group with Trace McSorley (Penn State), Marquise Brown (Oklahoma), Devin Singletary (Florida Atlantic) and Deebo Samuel (South Carolina) for this award.
I really like Singletary and Samuel, even if he is a Gamecock. Both of those guys are extremely explosive, but Etienne can run and break off big plays with the best of them.
All-Intangible:
Christian Wilkins joins Ed Oliver (Houston), Anfernee Jennings (Alabama), Joe Bachie (Michigan State) and Sam Ehlinger (Texas). Wilkins is certainly a guy that can do a ton and will be a huge leader for the Tigers this season.
Other Awards:
Death Valley was nominated as one of the best atmospheres with Penn State’s white out, LSU’s Death Valley at night, Husky Stadium and Kinnick Stadium (Iowa).
Clelin Ferrell and Austin Bryant were both listed on the finalist for the best pass-rushers, while Hunter Renfrow made the list of “ballers.” Travis Etienne was named one of the most explosive players and then The Abernathy, a hotel in Clemson, was named one of the best hotels in the country.
Finally, the Smokin’ Pig was listed as one of the best restaurants.
Herbstreit’s CFB Playoff Picks:
Herbstreit has Alabama, Clemson, Penn State and Washington as his final-four. He has the Crimson Tide winning it all over the Tigers in the National Championship.
What do you think of Herbstreit’s finalists and predictions? Comment below!