Midseason First and Second Team All-American Projections

DT: Christian Wilkins (Clemson)

Locking down the center of Clemson’s defensive line, Christian Wilkins has been a critical part of the Tigers’ top-ten defense. The rangy sophomore, a 6’4″, 310-pound behemoth, often occupies several offensive linemen’s attention yet still manages to get his stats. He is able to do a little bit of everything, intelligently disrupting offenses on both running and passing plays as Clemson marches toward what they hope is another ACC title and College Football Playoff berth.

Wilkins already has 8.5 tackles for loss and three sacks despite playing in the chaos of the interior, and has helped open space up for players like Carlos Watkins to get to the quarterback as well. The big defender has also blocked four passes at the line of scrimmage, showing a presence of mind to get his arms in the air if he can’t get to the quarterback in time. A fumble recovery in the season opener on a goal-line stand against Auburn was directly responsible for keeping Clemson on an undefeated path.