Clemson safety looks for big plays in ‘07

By Bob Wilson  |   Monday, February 19, 2007  |  Comments( 0 )

Clemson Tigers
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Clemson Tigers safety Chris Clemons had a big 2006 season and should be one of the team's defensive leaders in 2007. Clemons isn't a household name with Tiger fans yet, primarily because he is overshadowed by fellow safety Michael Hamlin.

Clemons quietly went about his job last season. He only had one interception and forced one just fumble, but he helped hold together an injury-plagued defense for most of the season. The soon-to-be redshirt junior was second on the team with 92 tackles, always seeming to be around the ball.

With injuries sideling linebackers Anthony Waters and Tremaine Billie, Clemons stepped up and helped out more against the run than Tiger safeties had been asked to in seasons' past. Because the Tigers often played zone with their secondary, Clemons was free to cheat up in running situations.

Clemons has good size for a college safety, standing 6-foot-1 and weighing 205 pounds. His height allows him to match up with opposing tight ends on passing downs, and he's strong enough to be an extra run stopper during rushing situations.

While the Arcadia, Fla., native had a strong sophomore campaign, he still has some areas of his game that need to improve. At this point, he plays better against the run than the pass. There were a few times last season when his average coverage skills were exposed. Defensive coordinator Vic Koenning did a good job of hiding the secondary's inexperience by playing a lot of soft zones; however, Clemons was prone to biting on fakes and gave up a few big plays down the stretch.

Clemons also could improve on his hands. He was in position to make a few interceptions but, as mentioned before, came away with a meager one pick on the year. Nonetheless, Clemons is a solid player with a bright future.

If the young safety can improve his coverage skills, Koenning can play more aggressively with his defensive backs. Hamlin is already solid, so if Clemons can improve his play, the coaches will be free to allow the cornerbacks to take more chances.

The rising youngster has the size and skills to become an above-average college safety, thus being remembered by Tigers fans for years to come.

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