Clemson football: Are Tiger fans underappreciating Tony Elliott?

Are Clemson football fans under appreciating Tony Elliott?

Clemson football is in a much better place today knowing that Tony Elliott is set to return after not being selected as the next football coach at Tennessee.

Clemson football fans will likely never know how far talks got or if there was ever any interest in the first place, but what we do know is that Clemson is fortunate to have a highly sought after individual on staff in Tony Elliott.

Over the years, there have been moments of frustration amongst fans that somehow the Clemson offense was being held back, that it was leaving lots of points on the field on a game to game basis. There have feelings that the offense lacks creativity as the offense struggled on the biggest stages in the last two years.

What is true, is Tony Elliott is one of the most respected individuals in football.

We as fans got a peek behind the curtain as NFL organizations reached out to Elliott to gauge his interest in making the jump. His name being associated with the Tennessee job reminded us that the possibility of Elliott moving on is a real possibility.

What Clemson has in Tony Elliott is one of the best men out there. He is universally respected for his character, how he works and his dedication to his craft. Sadly, we live in a world where that is not the norm.

On the field he has overseen 80 wins, developed and nurtured the best running back in Atlantic Coast Conference history. Elliott has led the Clemson offense to six dominating performances in ACC Championship games. He has helped bring two National Titles to Clemson against Alabama.

If nothing else, I am writing this for myself. On a game day, it is likely that Tony Elliott wants the offense to score on every possession more than I do. He wants to dial up the right play and see it executed flawlessly. Elliott wants an offensive line that can pass protect and run block with bad intentions. He is likely more frustrated than any of us when the offense goes into a lull.

If there is something to be learned from the last five days is that Clemson football fans need to be grateful for what they have in Tony Elliott. Not many first-time play-callers enjoy the success that  Elliott has since the end of 2014.

It’s not fair to expect him to be Andy Reid when he hasn’t been at it as long as Reid. It has become apparent that Tony Elliott’s time in Clemson will end sooner rather than later. In meantime we as fans should enjoy the ride he and staff have given us.