Three reasons Clemson Football makes the College Football Playoffs

Offensive line 

Watching a quarterback throw a dime down the field or a running back take it the distance are the best things to see on any given Saturday. But it wouldn’t be possible without a good offensive line to make the play happen.

Sure, the OL isn’t as flashy, But at this level of competitive football, they’re the difference in close games. In the game of inches, great offensive lines can get you the extra one every time. So, luckily for Clemson, the offensive line returns nearly every starter from last season.

Blake Miller returns at right tackle, while Walker Parker and Marcus Tate hold down the guard positions. Finally, at 6-foot-6-inches and 315 pounds, Tristan Leigh returns to play left tackle. The only replacement is for Will Putnam, who now plays for the Las Vegas Raiders. Ryan Linthicum will most likely take over the center duties.

Not only is Clemson returning four starters on the OL, it has some of the most experienced depth on the team. Both Trent Howard (GR) and Dietrick Pennington (redshirt junior) have played a lot of college football. That can come in handy down the road if injuries start to pile up.