Clemson returns 15 starters and despite Sammy Watkins being suspended for the first two games, it appears their strength will definitely be at the skrillz positions. Junior Tajh Boyd 6'1" 230 returns at QB. He threw for 3,828 yards with 33 TD's and 12 INT's in 2011. Running Back, Andre Ellington 5'11' 190, who rushed for 1,178 yards with 11 TD's also returns to the backfield.
With Watkins out, they'll look to DeAndre Hopkins at WR and fortunately, badass TE Dwayne Allen doesn't appear to be on the roster. I went to one site that had him listed as the best TE in America this year (Climpsum nob-schlob site) but he's not on their official roster so he either graduated or left early. Good thing because he was in fact badass.
The problems for Clemson come on both sides of the line. Three starters on the offensive line and three on the defensive line are gone. The offensive line started breaking down by the end of the year with Boyd taking a beating. A revamped Offensive line bodes well for Lemonier, Ford, Eguae, Sanders and Owens. Fast, strong defensive ends going against fresh meat. Despite having 3 guys on the defensive line who may all be playing on Sundays this year, the rushing defense was one of the worst in the ACC last year. Only one starter returns. However, the remainder of the defense returns in tact. All LB's and DB's are back with 6 seniors in the bunch.
Overall, I'd say the fact that it appears AU will be going right up the gut of defenses this year, means that hopefully they'll be attacking one of Clemson's biggest weaknesses. Plus, there's no reason our D-line shouldn't be wreaking havoc in their backfield all day. The fact that the TE is gone and one of the best receivers in the country will be a specatator is definitely a plus for the real Tigers. Add to that, Clemson is coming off an epic bitch slapping and the game will be played in an arena that seems to be Auburn's home away from home....I'm liking our chances more than I did a couple of weeks ago.
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