Clemson football safety Tanner Muse is continuing to progress as a leader and a trusted back-end safety for the Tigers in his career.
When Tanner Muse first joined the Clemson football program, everyone knew that he could be special.
From the time he stepped on campus, Muse was extremely physical. He was able to blowup rushers and make some impressive plays because of his ability as a head-hunter.
In coverage, though, Muse was suspect at best.
Because of that desire to stuff runners and come up with big hits, it seemed that Muse’s eyes sometimes were caught in the backfield. That led to wide receivers getting behind and busted coverages.
Last season, though, he began to progress in that category and this year he has gotten much better.
Containing WRs…
There are still times when Muse’s eyes get caught in the backfield. He doesn’t quite always have the speed or athleticism to make up for it either. There’s a play in the Texas A&M game that comes to mind.
But, he’s also had some really impressive moments as a defensive back in passing coverage. Against Wake Forest, Muse came up with an interception and played very well.
On the season, Muse has 18 tackles and has clearly taken steps forward in becoming an all-around better safety.
His biggest challenge will be Saturday when the Tigers take on the NC State Wolfpack.
Ryan Finley is the best quarterback remaining on Clemson football’s regular season schedule and he will test that Tiger secondary. Clemson will need Muse to play disciplined, assignment football and play up to his ability Saturday.
It will be interesting to see how the junior performs and I think we’ll come away impressed with how he responds.
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