Clemson football: Bold predictions for the 2022 season

Trenton Simpson will jump over a blocker at some point this season

Simpson has the attention of pro scouts due to his production and athleticism. He has played at strong side linebacker during his first two seasons, but has gotten time at inside linebacker this off-season.

Regardless of position, Simpson will get his opportunities to pass rush this season. When he does, it’s inevitable that someone will try to block him low, and when they do…..

At some point, the blocker will go low for the block, and Simpson will go over him.

I think Simpson’s biggest contribution this season could come in the leadership category, both on the field and in the locker room. You can see in the tweet that his teammates respect him and look up to him. His experience will be critical to a back seven that is replacing five valuable starters, including James Skalski, who was considered the point guard of the defense. Athleticism is great, but it’s a team sport and coordination in the back seven is critical. Andrew Mukuba will see the field a lot this year, but he is still getting experience. Landen Zanders hasn’t seen the field much in the past two seasons. Jayln Phillips is a senior but hasn’t been a full time starter yet. Sheridan Jones and Nate Wiggins are in a similar position to Phillips – they have seen the field, but not with regularity. The guys expected to start at linebacker alongside Simpson are physical specimens but are young and inexperienced.

We know the defensive line will pull their weight. Simpson will be the key to the rest of the defense doing their part.