The 2016 season is hitting the stretch run as fifth-ranked Clemson looks to make it back to the National Championship Game in Tampa.
In this edition of our Up Downs feature we take a look at which players made a move in the last week, which players are elevating their game and their position on the depth chart.
Up
Sean Pollard – With Jake Fruhmorgen out indefinitely Pollard has filled in nicely at right tackle. Pollard has seen more snaps as the season progressed and they increased when Fruhmorgen went down with a shoulder injury. Now that Fruhmorgen is out with personal issues the job is his. Pollard has done a good job in pass protection and is getting better each week.
Tremayne Anchrum – When Mitch Hyatt went down win a foot injury against Pitt Anchrum found himself holding down the left tackle position. Anchrum could see more action at left tackle this week if Hyatt can’t go. Dabo said Monday night he thinks Hyatt may be able to go with a plate in his shoe. Tremayne has been a pleasant surprise this year and the experience he is gaining will do wonders for his development.
C.J. Fuller – Fuller continues to be the No. 2 running back. He filled in while Gallman was injured and did a good job in pass protection. His time will be limited as long as the games are close but he has been performing consistently in practice and holding the No. 2 spot.
John Simpson – John continues to impress the coaches and saw some significant action against Pitt at guard when they moved Taylor Hearn outside to tackle. Simpson may see more time this week if Hyatt can’t go at left tackle. Simpson performed well Saturday and has been consistent in practice allowing him to be the next man up at guard.
Albert Huggins – With Scott Pagano out Huggins will see more playing time down the stretch. How he performs will dictate how much Christian Wilkins is needed at defensive tackle. The light went off earlier this year for Huggins and he will now have a chance to make a more significant contribution to the team with Pagano out.
Downs
Jake Fruhmorgen – Jake went down with a shoulder injury that caused him to miss one game and now personal issues have him out indefinitely. The starter for most of the year will have a battle on his hands when he gets back as Pollard continues to improve as he gains experience.
Marcus Edmond – A turf toe injury continues to keep Edmond on the sidelines. He did play a few snaps against Pitt but isn’t ready to see significant time again yet. The closer was not able to be on the field as Pitt closed out the win against the Tigers. Getting Edmond back healthy is critical for the stretch run.