In 2011, the Clemson football team took home the ACC trophy with the collaborative help of 42 freshmen. With the loss of five players that were expected to be big assets to the team this season, many are hoping some in this year’s freshmen class will rise up this time around, and fill in the holes that have been left behind.

After learning of defensive tackle D.J Reader leaving the team indefinitely due to personnel issues, many are worried about the depth of the defensive line. However, Clemson starting left guard Eric Mac Lain isn’t one of them.

“It is going to be just like 2011, a bunch of young freshmen and redshirt freshmen that nobody knows about that’s going to take this league by storm,” he said.

Those freshmen include Albert Huggins, Jabril Robinson and Christian Wilkins.

With several guys in line for Reader’s spot, Mac Lain believes Christian Wilkins is the most prepared.

“He has the most work,” Mac Lain said. “The kid is just amazing. His body type and work drive is phenomenal. He is going to be a great asset to our team.”

Mac Lain continued to speak of the Reader situation, but on a positive note. Referring to losing players in the past such as Sammy Watkins and Martavis Bryant due to suspension, Mac Lain stated, “We really just preach next man up.”

While discussing his confidence in moving the “next man up” to fill Reader’s spot, Mac Lain was also very supportive of Reader’s decision.

“The first thing I am going to do as soon as we get in that locker room is reach out to D.J and give him a phone call and let him know to take his time with whatever he needs to get accomplished,” Mac Lain said. “He needs to handle his business and we will handle ours.”

Mac Lain’s confidence in the team has him itching for the season to start.

“I’m so tired of smacking Ben Boulware all the time,” Mac Lain said while smiling.