Forecast calls for Merriweather at Clemson

By Stephen Jerdan  |   Friday, June 23, 2006  |  Comments( 7 )

Clemson Tigers
Got something to say?

Log In above and share your thoughts on this topic with other fans!

The Clemson Tigers' depth at the running back position can easily be considered one of the best in the nation. With ACC Rookie of the Year James Davis returning after a phenomenal freshman season and with the addition of C.J. Spiller, the nation's highest rated all-purpose halfback recruit, Clemson looks to have a pair of rather talented running backs. Senior Reggie Merriweather, an unknown to most non-Clemson fans, however, may emerge as the Tigers' most important running back in 2006.

Merriweather, a native of North Augusta, SC, quickly became a fan favorite in 2004 as the starter for the Tigers. The 5'8", 220 lbs. power back was boldly consistent as he hammered out 670 yards and 11 touchdowns on 136 carries in the Tommy Bowden's pass-heavy 2004 offense, and the coaches were determined to give him the ball in 2005 despite Davis being named the new starter.

Davis and Merriweather became a deadly combination throughout 2005. Davis made a name for himself when he completed his freshman season with 879 yards and 9 touchdowns on only 165 carries despite missing nearly three full games. Merriweather, however, stepped up throughout the year as the #2 back and quietly split the carries with Davis in-between plays and during his injury.

Merriweather muscled his way to 715 yards and 7 touchdowns on 149 attempts, which was nearly as efficient as Davis, and pounded out a game-winning 38 yard touchdown run against Maryland in the closing minutes of the game. The elusiveness and speed of Davis along with Merriweather's power proved to be an extremely proficient combination and opponents often found it nearly unstoppable.

Although one of the nation's best running-back recruits, CJ Spiller, will be arriving in Clemson shortly, Merriweather will still prove to be one of Clemson's most valuable players. The senior's maturity, experience, and power will be called upon, yet again, to counter Davis' quickness and speed, as well as break in Spiller for the future. Merriweather is the key to attaining a perfect balance in the Clemson running game, and his leadership will prove to be invaluable to Bowden's 2006 Clemson Tigers.

Have an idea on how to make this the best football site out there. E-mail us at feedback@realfootball365.com...get more college football insight at Realfootball365.com
Got something to say?

Log In above and share your thoughts on this topic with other fans! (7)

Article Tools Share!   |  RSS  |  Bleacher Report About Bleacher Report