End of season report: Clemson D-line

By Bob Wilson  |   Wednesday, February 14, 2007  |  Comments( 2 )

Clemson Tigers
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For the most part, the Clemson Tigers' defense played well in 2006. In fact, the unit ranked in the top 20 in every major defensive category. The Tigers were 13th in total defense and 16th in scoring 'D', giving up only 16.15 points per contest. Clemson's defense was also 18th against the run and 17th in passing efficiency.

Unfortunately for the Tigers, their defense broke down in defeats to Virginia Tech, South Carolina and the embarrassing loss to Kentucky in the Music City Bowl. While some of the blame needs to go to the offense's inability to stay on the field in the losses, the defense did not play at a high level consistently.

The one constant for the Tiger 'D' was the line. Led by All-American end Gaines Adams, the D-line was able to pressure opposing quarterbacks all season long. Buoyed by the senior's 12½ sacks, the unit had 25 of the defense's 36 QB takedowns and applied non-stop pressure.

Adams led the ACC in sacks and was tied for fourth in the nation. However, he was more than just a pass rusher. The Greenwood, S.C., native made 33 solo tackles and was in on another 18 assists. He used his speed to chase down runners and his power to blow through attempted blocks.

On the other end, Philip Merling quietly had a solid season. The sophomore was only in on 2½ sacks, but he forced two fumbles and, because of his steady performance, others were able to make plays.

Ricky Sapp played the role of super sub as a freshman. The 6-foot-5, 225-pounder is quite athletic for a defensive lineman and will be called upon to replace Adams next season. He finished with 18 tackles and had four sacks coming off the bench. Sapp also had a game-preserving sack against North Carolina State this past season.

While the defensive tackles don't get the attention and praise the ends do, their play was pivotal in stopping the run. Dorell Scott, Jock McKissic and Donnell Clark all played well over the course of this past year. This group helped the Clemson defense hold opponents to a measly 103.08 yards per game on the ground. They had their moments against the pass, too.

Not only did the tackles create a push up the middle, allowing Adams and the other ends to swing around for sacks, but McKissic had one of the most exciting plays of the year when he intercepted a pass and returned it for an 82-yard score against South Carolina.

The defense as a whole had its share of ups and downs in 2006, but the line was above average for most of the year. With Adams graduating to the NFL, there will be a drop-off next year, but Sapp is ready to step up.

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