Will Shipley was a critical part of Clemson’s sound 31-20 win over North Carolina last Saturday. The junior running back accounted for 126 yards and a touchdown on 18 carries, to go with 53 receiving yards on two receptions including a 36-yard catch.

In a meeting with the media Monday, offensive lineman Tristan Leigh and quarterback Cade Klubnik expressed the impact of Shipley’s “edge” on his performances throughout his career.

Leigh explained the “fire” that Shipley showed on the sidelines after fumbling on a crucial drive in the second quarter. 

“Y’all could tell he was about to bring it after that… He’s an edgy guy and when he’s playing with the edge, you see that in the whole offense,” Leigh said. “I’m seeing that guy and it makes me want to run through a brick wall.” 

Klubnik also weighed in on Shipley’s “edge” following the turnover that prompted his second-half offensive explosion.

 “He was upset, but it was a different type of upset this time where it was like all right, let’s go make a play,” Klubnik said. “I was just really proud of the way he responded and just the teammate that he was and is.”

Shipley has been a consistent producer for Clemson throughout his three years as a Tiger. In the North Carolina game, he became only the 10th player in Clemson history to reach 4,000 career all-purpose yards. 

Klubnik went on to describe Shipley as “one of my favorite teammates and friends that I’ve ever had.”

“His effort and the way he continues to give everything he possibly can to this team, it’s just so selfless and I’m really appreciative of him,” Klubnik said.

Clemson has another chance to spark Shipley’s fire on Saturday when the Tigers take on rival South Carolina at Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia.

The heated nature of the rivalry may be a good sign for Shipley’s success.

“He’s a really, really good player when he’s happy,” Klubnik said, “but he is dangerous when he gets upset.”

To honor Clemson’s special senior class Dear Old Clemson is selling footballs signed by 7 of Clemson’s Avengers for only $100.  These limited edition footballs are signed by Thomas, Orhorhoro, Davis, Mascoll, Henry, Murphy and Williams.  Get one while supplies last.