ACC Football Spring Preview Top 10 questions and storylines

ACC Football Spring Preview: Top 10 questions and storylines

Dec 31, 2015; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) and head coach Dabo Swinney celebrate after defeating the Oklahoma Sooners in the 2015 CFP semifinal at the Orange Bowl at Sun Life Stadium. Clemson won 37-17. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports /

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Sep 5, 2015; Clemson, SC, USA; Clemson Tigers defensive coordinator Brent Venables reacts during the first half against the Wofford Terriers at Clemson Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports /

Can Clemson rebuild the defense, again?

The Clemson Tigers didn’t make it to the National Championship Game solely on the right arm and the feet of quarterback Deshaun Watson. Dabo Swinney’s team had one of the best defenses in the country last year but that defense will be without studs in Shaq Lawson, Kevin Dodd and Mackensie Alexander who all are projected to be first round picks in the NFL Draft.

Brett Venables defense had to replace a lot of star power last year and they actually improved, but can they do that for a second year in a row?

Defensive tackle Christian Wilkins could be in line for an All-American season but he needs to see some breakout campaigns from the likes of Austin Bryant, Richard Yeargin and Sterling Johnson for the Tigers defense to pick up where they left off last year.

They won’t have many concerns on offense so long as Watson is healthy, especially with the return of receiver Mike Williams, but a second ACC title and College Football Playoff trip hinges on the defensive makeover.

Next: Who wins FSU QB job?

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