The 2014 season is coming to a close as the Tigers await their bowl destination. Each week TCI will look at the players moving up and those that are moving down in the Up Downs feature. Which players are elevating their game and their position on the depth chart?
Up
Artavis Scott – Scott is obviously not moving up the depth chart as he has been a starter for most of the season, but his play is reaching elite level. In the biggest game of the year, when the Tigers needed someone to step up, Scott did just that. Enjoy No. 3 for the next two years, but after that he will be playing on Sunday’s with Sammy, Martavis and Nuk.
Wayne Gallman – Just a week after Tyshon Dye wowed Clemson fans with his performance, Gallman was “the man” against South Carolina. Gallman gave the Tigers what they needed most with Watson playing with an ACL. Wayne left no doubt after that performance that he can carry the load at running back and to it on a big stage. Next season Dye will be a different player and Choice will be back, but Gallman has proven he deserves to be a major contributor at running back.
Carlos Watkins – Watkins is returning to the form he showed early last season before the tragic accident. He had won the starting job going into the Georgia game last season. Against South Carolina he showed that he is back and ready to help take charge next season after Jarrett, Watson and Williams depart. Watkins has the skills to be a dominant defensive tackle. He showed that Saturday with his elevated play.
Dorian O’Daniel – O’Daniel has really come on strong the final few games of the regular season. Coach Venables can’t say enough about his progress. Dorian has shown he is ready to be a major contributor to the defense next season. Although Anthony and Steward will play their final game in the bowl, don’t look for much of a dropoff at linebacker next season, thanks to the great depth at the position.
Downs
Jay Jay McCullough – Jay Jay finished the season in the coaches doghouse after missing several games due to suspension. We will have to see what the offseason holds for this young man that has shown flashes this season of being a very good tight end.
Germone Hopper– Hopper once again had a critical drop as the Tigers were going in for a score Saturday. This has become all to common for Germone the second half of the season. After the drop Hopper spent the game watching from the sidelines. There is simply too much talent at receiver to have someone that consistently drops the ball on the field. With McCloud and Cain on the way the receiver position will get another major boost in talent. Hopper will have to raise his game significantly if he wants to see the field much next season.
Jordan Leggett – Leggett also had a big drop in the game against South Carolina. Jordan has all the tools to be a dominant tight end, but this season he has been a disappointment. With Richard and Smith coming off a redshirt and with another outstanding tight end Williams on the way Leggett needs to have a great offseason or he may be overtaken by some of the young guns.