Clemson’s Taylor attempts to muscle Clemson forward

By Stephen Jerdan  |   Monday, May 08, 2006  |  Comments( 0 )

Clemson Tigers
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While much of the attention that the Clemson Tigers are receiving is on last year's ACC Rookie of the Year James Davis, an offensive line that returns in its entirety, and senior QB Will Proctor's ability to replace four-year starter, Charlie Whitehurst, a star is being born in the Clemson receiving corps - his name is Rendrick Taylor.

Taylor has been described as a "freak" by the Tigers' coaching staff - and at 6'2" and 225lbs with running-back speed and a 40 inch vertical, who wouldn't agree? Rendrick's unique frame and athletic ability not only gives the Tigers a receiver that burns off the line, but one who uses his linebacker-like strength to muscle through defenders to pull down jump balls.

Although Taylor only played in six of the Tigers' 12 games as a true freshman last season, he managed to pull down nine catches for 69 yards, including at least one grab in every game played. His greatest performance, however, came during Clemson's annual Orange and White spring game this past April. Taylor managed four receptions for an astounding 174 yards with one touchdown, including a 97 yard touchdown strike caught behind the line of scrimmage.

In fact, he's made such an impact with the coaching staff since the end of last season that the Tigers' offensive coordinator, "Mad Scientist" Rob Spence, has added in a whole new position to the Clemson offensive arsenal - the J-back position. This position, which Spence has customized strictly for Taylor, will allow his latest creation to rotate seamlessly between wideout, halfback, fullback, and tight-end.

"I like the J-back a lot," said Taylor. "I'm excited about it. I'm out there working hard at it, and it's a way for me to get the ball and get on the field more."

Although Rendrick is new to his exclusive, latest position, the transition from wideout to J-back should be easy enough for this Vernon Davis-like super-athlete. Expect Taylor to make some noise this season as the Clemson Tigers prepare to make their Atlantic Division run to Jacksonville for the ACC Championship game.
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