As the 2016 college football season begins, Clemson looks to recapture a spot in the College Football Playoff and leave Tampa as the best team in the country.
While winning a national championship is the pinnacle of college football accomplishments, it does so much more than that.
Recruiting is the one word that is the secret to crafting top-notch college football teams. As Dabo Swinney continues to win (and dance) on the national stage, while emphasizing the importance of having a fun and friendly environment for his players and coaches, he has the top recruits and their families’ full attention.
With a list that contains 13 recruits, nine on ESPN’s 300 list, the Tigers look to finish as one of the top recruiting classes in the country yet again.
Here’s a look into the Clemson recruiting class of 2017’s top performers of Week 2.
Hunter Johnson, the top ranked quarterback in the 2017 recruiting class, is sure living up to that rank so far this year. Last Friday Johnson threw for 321 yards and three touchdowns for Brownsburg (Ind.), leading his team to a 46-30 win. This is good news for Clemson fans pondering what life will be like A.D. (After Deshaun).
Receiver Amari Rodgers had a huge game for Knoxville (Tenn.) Catholic, tallying 205 yards on six catches and two touchdowns in a 49-19 route. Rodgers switched from running back to wide receiver this year and brings a great speed and strength combination similar to Artavis Scott’s.
The latest edition to Clemson’s recruiting class, cornerback A.J. Terrell, uses his crazy athletic ability to play both ways for Westlake (Ga.) High School. He contributed two touchdowns on offense, one rushing and one receiving in a 29-13 victory. At 6-2 180 pounds, his size and length will complement freshman Trayvon Mullen at corner to make a formidable secondary.
Tee Higgins, the fourth ranked receiver in his class, had six receptions for 97 yards and a touchdown in a close 30-25 win on Friday night. One of the most physically and athletically gifted recruits in the country, coming in at an impressive 6-5 190 pounds, Higgins looks like a promising replacement for Mike Williams.