Clemson Football: What fans want to see most from the Tiger offense
By John Chancey
Use the middle of the field
As Clemson’s offense aged, it became fairly predictable. Screens and passes to the boundaries became commonplace.
Other high-powered offenses like Alabama were finding great success with wide receiver crossing patterns over the middle of the field, but the Tiger offense rarely dabbled with such play calls. When they did, it was usually a route called for the tight end.
With Trevor Lawrence behind center and Tee Higgins catching balls, it was never a glaring problem. When those two moved on, DJ Uiagalelei failed to live up to expectations, and Justyn Ross was slowed with medical problems, it was clear that Clemson needed to become less predictable in the passing game.
Many hoped that the renovations that Streeter was making would utilize the middle of the field in 2022. Alas, Tiger fans were disappointed again.
With Riley’s arrival, Clemson Nation again has their fingers crossed that we will see a broadening of the passing routes. Passing game coordinator Kyle Richardson says fans should get their wish.
Probably the thing Clemson fans wanted to hear most, passing game coordinator Kyle Richardson said the Tigers' new scheme will feature lots of crossing routes.
— Jon Blau (@Jon_Blau) March 30, 2023
"You'll probably see more balls in that 10-, 15-yard area in the middle of the field."
Yes, the middle of the field.
He didn’t specifically say that it would be the wide receivers with routes over the middle, but it’s a safe assumption. Tight end Jake Briningstool is good, but odds say that the receivers, especially the slots, will get their chances to make plays in the middle.