End of season report: Clemson receivers

By Bob Wilson  |   Sunday, March 11, 2007  |  Comments( 1 )

Clemson Tigers
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The Clemson Tigers' receivers had a disappointing 2006 season. With Chansi Stuckey, a returning All-ACC performer, and the preseason buzz surrounding Rendrick Taylor, hopes were high for this group. Unfortunately, they underperformed for a variety of reasons.

Stuckey led the Tigers in catches (50), yards (700) and tied for the team lead in receiving touchdowns (three). While those are solid numbers, they are hardly the type of stats that scream "star player." Stuckey missed a few games to injury and had to deal with poor quarterback play -- as did all of the players. However, many were expecting more out the senior receiver. He also had an inopportune fumble in the red zone against Boston College, a game the Tigers eventually lost in overtime.

Aaron Kelly, meanwhile, had a poor season after a breakout freshman year in 2005. His numbers were down and he often disappeared for chunks of games. He was second on the team with 30 catches and 355 yards. He did, however, tie for the team lead in scores with three.

Tyler Grisham was a bit of a pleasant surprise, but he also battled problems with consistency all season. He caught 25 balls for 264 yards and three touchdowns, making some big plays along the way. Grisham showed he was capable of making tough catches, but he also had some big drops.

Unfortunately for the Tigers, Rendrick Taylor's season was cut short because of injury. He only played in six games and came up with 12 receptions for 152 yards and a score. Taylor displayed good hands but never showcased the explosiveness he demonstrated in the spring game.

Jacoby Ford was brought along slowly but was impressive for a true freshman. He gained 187 yards on 15 catches and scored two touchdowns. His numbers could have been better had he played more offense in the first half of the year, but the coaches used him primarily as a kick returner to start the season.

Finally, Thomas Hunter provided 305 yards and 16 receptions at the tight end position, but he didn't score any touchdowns. As much as offensive coordinator Rob Spence has talked about using his tight ends, those numbers seem pretty low.

Overall, the receivers had a down year. This group was hampered by injuries, and though poor quarterback play was a factor, it still didn't excuse the receivers' below-average play entirely.
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