5 Clemson Football players who could win awards in 2024

Jake Briningstool

It is time to share one of my infamous cold takes. About halfway through the 2023 season, I shared with some friends that I thought Briningstool was destined for a transfer out of Clemson Football. He was not excelling in Garrett Riley’s new ‘dirt raid’ offense.

Briningstool came alive in the latter half of 2024 and sent my take straight to Antarctica.

He will be a key target for Cade Klubnik, both as a primary and as an emergency valve when he is under pressure. Bringingstool, Antonio Williams, and Tyler Brown will form a triumvirate of options for Klubnik in the passing game.

The area where Briningstool can improve his stock the most is in blocking. Riley made a point when he arrived that blocking was critical for a tight end in his offense. Briningstool has always been viewed as a good pass catcher who isn’t as reliable as a blocker. If he can check that last box in 2024, he could be in store for a huge season.

Possible awards: John Mackey Award (tight ends)

Blake Miller

Miller has two seasons of starting experience at right tackle. He is one of the few third-year players who might be able to leave college early for the NFL.

He was considered one of the better linemen for Clemson in 2023.

If injuries can be avoided (and we all know that is a big if) all of the pieces appear to be in place for the offensive line to be good this season. They have a new coach with Matt Luke. They have three returning starters with at least two years of experience. They have a former 5-star at left tackle and the one new starter will (probably) be a player with three years of experience in the program.

Possible awards: Lombardi Award (down lineman), Outland Trophy (interior linemen), Joe Moore Award (offensive linemen)

NEXT: Khalil Barnes