The Clemson football Spring Game is scheduled for April 9 in Death Valley and in this series we’re providing a preview of each position group.
When: April 9 at 1 PM, Clemson Memorial Stadium
Position Coach: Nick Eason – With all the interest surrounding the promotions of coaches and staffers this offseason, it was Eason’s return to Death Valley which generated the most excitement. Eason quickly reminded fans that he was a Clemson man and a perfect fit for the staff. When you include Eason’s experience playing and coaching in the NFL, we can argue the Tigers upgraded at Defensive Line Coach.
It’s been about 7,000 days since Coach Eason’s last practice as a Tiger.
— Clemson Football (@ClemsonFB) March 3, 2022
Welcome back to Clemson, @CoachEason1! pic.twitter.com/VzFCzCH9BP
Who is playing: Tyler Davis (SR), Ruke Orhorhoro (JR-RS), Etinosa Reuben (JR-RS), DeMonte Capehart (SO-RS), Payton Page (SO)
Who isn’t playing: Bryan Bresee (JR), Tre Williams (SO-R), Caden Story (FR)
What we can expect for the spring game: The five scholarship tackles playing this spring will all get opportunities to show what they can do, but don’t be surprised if Davis puts in a couple of defensive series and then hits the showers. It’s sobering to see the ‘Senior’ label beside his name. If there is anyone on the roster who could have just skipped spring altogether, it’s Davis. The other four will likely get the bulk of the snaps.
What we can expect for next season: At first glance, one might believe that defensive end is the deepest position on this team, but after looking at the defensive tackles, it might be just as deep. Davis and Bresee could be first-round talents in the 2023 NFL Draft. Orhorhoro, Reuben and Williams played well when called upon in 2021.
K.J. Henry and Bryan Bresee pic.twitter.com/Bttfw2tSB2
— Seldom Used Reserve (@seldomusedres) February 22, 2022
Capehart has struggled to stay healthy, but analysts say he has considerable talent as well. Finally, Page appears to have stepped up his conditioning. The coaches have given him good marks so far this spring. It’s not surprising that Eason left Auburn for this job. Not only is Clemson his alma mater, but very few programs, if any, will boast the talent that his group will have in 2022. Eason said as much recently, noting the talent among his starters and the depth of the group.