By Heath Bradley.

By Heath Bradley

The play of the interior defensive line is something Clemson can improve on in the years to come. As the 2012 season progressed, these players continued to elevate their games. As the Tigers look to 2013, the play of these interior linemen is something that can be a strength on next year’s defense.

One player’s play that sticks out is that of Josh Watson. The sophomore really came into his own this season, making multiple big plays behind the line of scrimmage for the Tigers. His ability to disrupt the pocket from the interior as well as stuff the run was a welcome sight. What causes major excitement is Watson, as well as the rest of the interior linemen continued to improve throughout the 2012 season. With a season of significant snaps under their belt, it is exciting to see where this group could end up in 2013 if they continue to progress.

Joining Watson in the middle was a host of young Tigers. Sophomores Grady Jarrett and DeShawn Williams logged the majority of snaps. Also receiving a significant amount of playing time was a pair of true freshman in Carlos Watkins and D.J. Reader.

While undersized, Grady Jarrett plays with a motor that is second to none. He uses his height to his advantage, playing with great leverage. One of the strongest and more athletic players on the team, Jarrett can use his explosiveness to move offensive players out of the way, or even get by them. Williams is built in the same frame as former Tiger and Daniel High School alum, Jarvis Jenkins. A big, physical player who plays with great emotion, Williams plays his best when he is inspired.

Clemson fans have to be impressed with the play of the two true freshmen. Reader, also a member of the baseball team, seemed to make more of an early impact, using his size and athletic ability to disrupt plays, often in the backfield. While it took Watkins longer to become comfortable on the field, once that light went off, he became a force, using his strength and leverage to overtake offensive linemen and stop running backs dead in their tracks.

4-star Scott Pagano will be added to the roster next season.  The Tigers also hope to add the nation’s top defensive tackle, Montravius Adams.

What was once thought of as a liability after losing two players to the NFL following the 2011 season, the Clemson interior defensive line looks to be the strength of the Tiger defense for many years to come.