The leap from the FCS to a top-five program is a daunting one, and for a moment on the first day of fall camp, senior transfer Tristan Smith felt the weight of it.
After what he called a "rough day" filled with nerves, the former Southeast Missouri State star shook it off. Now, with the season opener just one week away, he's not just fitting in—he's standing out.
Head coach Dabo Swinney has been raving about the 6-foot-5 receiver, noting after a recent scrimmage that Smith was making "one-handed catches" and using his massive frame to haul in touchdown grabs in the end zone.
It's a long way from day one, when Smith admitted the pressure of his last-ever fall camp got to him.
"I had kind of a rough day, getting acclimated... and coach Swinney got onto me a little about that," Smith said. "I had a lot going through my head... just nerves. That’s all it is. But after I got that first day out the way, I was ready to roll.”
Clemson fans got a preview of what was to come in the spring game, where Smith exploded for five catches, 137 yards, and a touchdown. Now, he's showing that big-play ability consistently.
'Infectious Energy, Deceptive Speed'
Wide receivers coach Tyler Grisham praised Smith's physical gifts and the unique energy he brings to the room.
"He’s long, he has a really great catch radius, he runs well," Grisham said. "It’s kind of deceptive because he’s got such a long stride. He’s got toughness."
"His personality is phenomenal, his energy is infectious," Grisham added. "He’s very thankful for his opportunity… I love the young man and am excited about his future.”
After a stellar career in the FCS where he notched 934 receiving yards last season, Smith has successfully made the jump. He's gone from a nervous newcomer to a potential key weapon for an offense with national championship aspirations, and he'll make his official debut on the national stage next Saturday against LSU.