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Clemson Football: 5 freshmen who have already shown first-round potential

By Shawn Spencer

Oct 31, 2020; Clemson, SC, USA; Clemson defensive lineman Bryan Bresee (11) sings the alma mater with teammates after the game against Boston College at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Josh Morgan-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 31, 2020; Clemson, SC, USA; Clemson defensive lineman Bryan Bresee (11) sings the alma mater with teammates after the game against Boston College at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Josh Morgan-USA TODAY Sports /
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Trenton Simpson, Clemson Tigers Mandatory Credit: Josh Morgan-USA TODAY Sports
Trenton Simpson, Clemson Tigers Mandatory Credit: Josh Morgan-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Trenton Simpson

Trenton Simpson was challenged at times over the past couple of weeks as he stood in for an injured Mike Jones Jr. and in more cases than not, he excelled.

We’re not here to say that Simpson is a finished product by any means- no freshman is. He had a couple of missed tackles and was beaten in coverage, as well, in particularly during the Notre Dame game.

But you’ve got to look at the potential, and there’s no doubt that the talent is there.

Simpson has the ability to be an elite linebacker like we haven’t seen before at Clemson football- he almost looks like a perfect blend of Isaiah Simmons, Jones Jr. and Dorian O’Daniel.

It takes linebackers a while to grow up at the collegiate level, especially in Brent Venables’ defense, but Simpson has already proven to be a valued contributor and that’s all because of his raw ability.

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