On Thursday, Aug. 20, Clemson completed its last full scrimmage. The Tigers now have about two weeks to prepare for their home opener against Wofford.

The scrimmage proved to be a good one for Clemson, especially for the offense. Co-offensive coordinator Jeff Scott mentioned that the offense did not turn the ball over a single time, which was an improvement from previous scrimmages. Head coach Dabo Swinney was also thrilled with the performance of his whole first team offense, but he was really happy with the offensive line.

“The first group offensive line was impressive, especially in the running game,” Swinney said.

As of now, the starting five on the offensive line, according to Swinney, are Mitch Hyatt, Eric Mac Lain, Ryan Norton, Joe Gore, and Tyrone Crowder. However, Swinney mentioned that it’s a really close competition between the first and second team players.

Specifically, Swinney mentioned that Jake Fruhmorgen, Jay Guillermo, Taylor Hearn and Justin Falcinelli are all pushing for playing time.

“We’re not afraid to play any of those guys. We really feel good about that group,” Swinney said. “We feel like we’ve got a good situation up front.”

When Isaiah Battle left Clemson early to enter the supplemental draft, leaving true freshman Hyatt to take his place on the starting lineup, some questioned how the line would be affected. However, the coaches have full faith that the line will be a solid part of Clemson’s offense this season.

“All those young guys and their passion to play, they’ve upped the standard in that room, so they’re all getting better. Our run game has improved,” co offensive coordinator Tony Elliot said.

Elliot then went on to discuss how proud he was of Crowder, who will be starting at right guard.

“He’s had a really really good camp,” Elliot said. “He’s creating movement, he’s smart. The offensive line is a totally different group this year.”

Crowder saw some playing time last season as a redshirt freshman, and has one start under his belt. Now, he says that he is ready to take his experience and step up as a starter.

“Last year, I kind of got a few snaps, but I kind of feel like I left something out there. I didn’t feel complete. I feel like this year is more like a statement for me and to try to get better from last year,” Crowder said. “Those reps last year kind of just slowed down the game for me.”

Elliot mentioned that Crowder is where the coaches hoped he would be, and that he was impressed with the work that he had put in over fall camp.

“Last year, I was just mainly a run blocker, but this year, I feel like I’m kind of complete with the pass blocking,” Crowder said.

Crowder praised his veteran linemen for always being there to help him grow as a player if he needed them.

“Them two guys (Gore and Norton) bring a lot of knowledge to the game. If I need anything, I know I can depend on those guys, but I try not to. I try to know my game.”

Although he has already had his first career start, Crowder was lost for words when asked about how he feels about having the opportunity to start the season on the first team roster.

“It’s going to be awesome. I don’t know how to say the feeling, but it is going to be a wild experience,” Crowder said. “I’m going to give my all on every play.”