Clemson football: 3 quick fixes that could help improve 2021 offense

Three quick fixes that could help improve the Clemson football offense in 2021

2. Ride Will Shipley at running back and mix in the designed QB run

This is no offense to Kobe Pace, but it’s time for Will Shipley to be the starter at running back and for him to get the bulk of the carries at the position.

Shipley has clearly separated himself from the pack and it’s time for the Tigers to let him handle that workload with Pace, and potentially Phil Mafah, Darien Rencher and Michel Dukes from time to time, coming in to spell him for a few drives throughout the day.

Shipley has that explosiveness and ability to make some things happen through his speed. If the Tigers can get him going that can make things easier on Uiagalelei and open up the passing game to an extent.

In addition, Clemson needs to mix in the designed quarterback run.

When Uiagalelei ran the ball in the second half, the offense looked much more competent. He showed some emotion after picking up a first down with his legs and having him run the ball and take a few hits can help his mental state when dropping back in the pocket. Sometimes it just seems like he’s seeing ghosts and getting him going on the ground could help to alleviate some of that.

Opposing defenses are going to try and force Clemson to beat them through the air and on the edges rather than going deep, but at least having the threat of Shipley’s explosiveness and the QB run could keep them honest.