By Heath Bradley.
Over the next two days we will detail the top five players on each side of the ball that we feel that Clemson cannot lose in 2012. We feel that if the Tigers lose one of these players, their respective side of the ball will suffer greatly.
#5. Brandon Ford – TE
Ford is now the man at tight end. He is the only returning Tiger at tight end with multiple receptions in his career. His game changing ability as well as his leadership will be a key for the Tigers in 2012. His mixture of size, power, and speed are things that no other tight ends on the roster possess.
#4. Brandon Thomas – LT
Thomas has emerged as the starting left tackle. It will be his job to protect Tajh Boyd’s blindside. While Thomas has played sparingly at tackle in his career to this point, the coaches feel that he is the best available option at left tackle. Due to the lack of depth with quality playing time behind Thomas, his ability to stay on the field in 2012 is key.
#3. Andre Ellington – RB
Andre Ellington has missed games due to injury each of the last two seasons. Each time he has been forced out of the lineup, the Clemson offense has struggled greatly. His ability to change the game not only running the ball, but also as a calming factor for Tajh Boyd, is second to none on this roster. While Clemson has many other talented running backs on the roster, none of them can impact the game the way Ellington can. His ability to stay healthy in 2012, we believe will play a large role in the success of this offense.
#2. Dalton Freeman – C
Freeman is on pace to play in more snaps than any Tiger ever. He has been the man providing the snaps since Tajh Boyd arrived on campus. The comfort level between him and Boyd is something that is often overlooked by many. Having Freeman on the field is like having a second coach, his understanding of the offense as well as his leadership will play a key role in the development of the offensive line this season. Behind Freeman, no Tiger center has currently appeared in a game with Ryan Norton redshirting in 2011 and Jay Guillermo enrolling in the spring of 2012. While these guys will see the field in 2012, hopefully it is only in a reserve role.
#1. Tajh Boyd – QB
Tajh Boyd has all the tools to be the nation’s top quarterback; this was seen at times in 2011. His skills, along with his understanding of the game, and his leadership make him the most irreplaceable player in 2012. The talent set that he brings onto the field is completely different than any other quarterback on the Clemson roster. With his new emphasis on becoming a better runner, he will add another dimension to his already great passing skills. While Boyd was dinged up at times in 2011, he was never forced to miss extended playing time. His ability to stay healthy will dictate how explosive the offense can be in 2012. If he is able to stay on the field, the Tigers could be looking at another record setting season.