Clemson’s secondary should shine next season

By Bob Wilson  |   Tuesday, February 27, 2007  |  Comments( 2 )

Clemson Tigers
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Despite being tabbed by many as a defensive weak link, the Clemson secondary proved successful in 2006. The defensive backs played above expectations for most of the year, leading the Tigers to a 17th national ranking in pass efficiency 'D' and 24th in passing yardage surrendered (177.7 yards per game).

Duane Coleman -- a former running back -- truly blossomed for the Tigers, emerging as a leader and energizer for the defense. The senior forced two fumbles and provided solid run support, but he also turned himself into a quality coverage cornerback.

Crezdon Butler led the secondary with three interceptions. As the season progressed, the freshman cornerback gained more playing time and became a valuable option in the secondary.

C.J. Gaddis, meanwhile, was a jack of all trades, playing both corner and safety. His versatility provided great depth and allowed the Tigers' coaches to tinker with their lineup to match the size and speed of Clemson's opponents. Gaddis had two picks and showed enough athleticism to leave school a year early for the NFL.

Although Coleman & Co. were fan favorites, the strength of the defensive backfield was the safeties.

Michael Hamlin and Chris Clemons were both terrific last year. While Coleman was a vocal leader, Hamlin let his play speak for him. He was the most consistent player in the group and will likely leave for the pros after next season.

Clemons was second on the team with 92 tackles and provided big-time help at stopping the run. Clemons did bite on a few pump fakes toward the latter part of the season, but he was a bright spot nonetheless.

It wasn't all rosy, though, as the Tigers gave up plenty of passing yardage at the end of the season and in their Music City Bowl loss. Part of that can be blamed on the offense's inability to move the ball, but some blame must also fall on the defense.

When given time to throw, above-average enemy quarterbacks were able to find holes in the Clemson zones, which was an indictment on the entire defense. The D-line wasn't always able to get enough pressure, and the DBs seemed to wear down at the end of the year.

The Tigers have the tall task of replacing Coleman and Gaddis prior to next season, but the secondary could be even better. Buoyed by its returning safeties, the unit will be a strength in 2007. Of course, that's assuming someone steps up at corner and the group avoids wearing down.

Daily Clemson Tigers insight, courtesy of RealFootball365.com
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