Clemson Football: 5 Tigers we’re counting on to win ACC Championship

CHARLOTTE, NC - DECEMBER 02: Head coach Dabo Swinney of the Clemson Tigers celebrates with members of his team on the awards stand with the ACC Football Championship trophy following the Tigers' victory over the Miami Hurricanes at Bank of America Stadium on December 2, 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Mike Comer/Getty Images) /

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James Skalski, Clemson football Mandatory Credit: Ken Ruinard-USA TODAY Sports /

2. James Skalski

Not having James Skalski in the first game really hurt that Tiger defense.

When Skalski is on the field, this defense just looks different. There’s more confidence. The linebackers are in better position. The rushing lanes are smaller.

If Clemson is going to slow down that rushing attack and contain Ian Book, it’s all going to start with Skalski’s presence on the field.

Look for the middle linebacker to make a big-time impact in this one and for the Tigers to look a lot better against that Notre Dame offensive attack with him at the helm this time.

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