Those with blinders who question Clemson’s potential in the passing game this season must be receptive to the possibility of a more versatile offense with Chad Morris still drawing the plays.
On face value it would seem a challenge, but keep in mind the transition from 2010 to 2011 when Clemson went from 334.6 yards of offense per game to 440.8 in Morris’ first season as offensive coordinator.
With Sammy Watkins and Martavis Bryant in the NFL there are plenty of potential targets for quarterback Cole Stoudt, though not all designated receivers. Tight ends and running backs could become more critical to advancing the ball through the air.
Tight ends Jordan Leggett and Stanton Seckinger, and running back Zac Brooks, guys who have toiled together to earn their places on this team, are among Stoudt’s favorite targets. Leggett and Seckinger are among the most sure-handed on the team, and at 6-foot-4 251 pounds and 6-5 245 respectively, Stoudt’s biggest targets. Both are durable and athletic, capable of stretching the field and extending a play.
Leggett hinted there may be more opportunities than to showcase his prodigious skill. “I can’t tell you in detail,” he said. “I’m playing
all over the field.”
Seckinger as a sophomore caught 21 passes for 244 yards and four touchdowns. On parole from the doghouse, Leggett averaged 14.7 yards on 12 catches (only Martavis Bryant and Mike Williams were) and senior Brooks, a high school receiver, averaged 13.8.
“They want to have a guy that can actually run routes, then if they have to they can bring him into the backfield as a blocker and things like that,” Leggett said. “When you get good at that, we’re going to be a brilliant offense.”
Asked about potential pass targets, Morris does not neglect the tight ends. In addition to Leggett and Seckinger are senior Sam Cooper and enigmatic Jay Jay McCullough. Seckinger left the practice field early Monday after twisting an ankle.
“I think you can count on Jordan Leggetts, Sam Coopers and Stanton Seckingers,” Morris said. “Everybody can catch. Can you make the right catch? Can you block? Can you physical like we’re asking you to do? That’s what is going to separate guys.”
Versatility instantly becomes critical with Georgia’s defense certainly challenging Stoudt to beat it first with his arm. A more combustible, complementary run game should be another asset as Clemson’s offense evolves.
“It’s another game, another opponent. You’ve just got to prepared to play your best,” Stoudt said. “I’m going to prepare to help this best the best I can, and we’re going go in there and have some fun and relax and let loose.”