Fullback’s role in offense still important

By Bob Wilson  |   Wednesday, August 23, 2006  |  Comments( 1 )

Clemson Tigers
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Fullback is no longer a glorious position at Clemson. Gone are the days of the wishbone attack when the fullback was an integral part of the offense and could expect upwards of 10 carries a game. Tommy Bowden has opted to use an attack that doesn't even feature a fullback at times. Often, the Tigers use multiple tight ends or three to four receivers, leaving the fullback on the sideline.

To further complicate the issue, the Clemson Tigers appear to be blessed with an embarrassment of talent at the tailback position which leaves even fewer ball-carrying opportunities for the fullbacks. When the coaches and fans talk about the running game, the names James Davis, Reggie Meriweather and C.J. Spiller come up. There are rumors of putting Davis and Spiller in the backfield together at times to take advantage of their speed and athleticism and to create more big-play opportunities. The five returning starters on the offensive line are also getting a lot of press. However, not too many casual fans can even name the starting fullback.

Despite his size (6-foot-2, 255 pounds), Alex Pearson is one of the most anonymous players on the team. This little known sophomore may be one of the keys to the offense in 2006 without even touching the ball. Last year Clemson ran the ball 442 times, but only one of those carries was by a fullback. Additionally, the fullbacks only had two receptions. Those numbers probably aren't going to improve much with three gifted tailbacks on the squad.

Although the Greenville native won't be called on to carry the ball, his blocking skills will be crucial to the running game. Coach Bowden has gone out of his way to praise Pearson's play during short-yardage drills in practice this spring and is counting on him to be an effective lead blocker.

Clemson's offense improved dramatically last year, but still had problems in the red zone. Too often the Tigers were forced to settle for three instead of punching in for the touchdown. Last year's Boston College game was lost in the trenches when the team was unable to convert a single third-down attempt. The offense needs to find a way to convert on third and short and finish off drives with touchdowns if they hope to take the next step toward becoming an elite offense.

There will come a time when the team needs a tough yard on third down or is facing a fourth-and-goal late in a game and will need a crushing block from the fullback. These short-yardage opportunities are where Pearson can make a name for himself.

Maybe the fans will notice his blocks and acknowledge his efforts, but most likely all attention will be focused on the man with the ball. However, the sophomore's hard work will not go unnoticed by his teammates. What more can a fullback really ask for these days?

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