Clemson Football: 5 breakout candidates in 2017 spring game

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Dec 3, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers linebacker Dorian O’Daniel (6) reacts to the referee after he gets disqualified for targeting against the Virginia Tech Hokies during the first half of the ACC Championship college football game at Camping World Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

The Clemson football spring camp is coming to a close shortly. Here’s a look at five breakout candidates to watch in the Tigers’ spring game this weekend.

The Clemson Tigers kick off their Spring Game on April 9. Players on next year’s team will have an opportunity to show off their talent at the skill positions, particularly on offense.

The Clemson offense will have a quarterback battle on its hand as the team looks to replace Deshaun Watson, who left for the NFL Draft. Watson’s 4,593 passing yards and 41 passing touchdowns will be hard to replace. But there are four quarterbacks battling it out for the starting spot, one is a true freshman who enrolled early in January.

Running back Wayne Gallman’s 1,133 rushing yards and 17 rushing touchdowns will also be diffcult to replace but the team has plenty of running backs. Those being Tavien Feaster, C.J. Fuller, Adam Choice and Tyshon Dye.

But this weekend’s spring game will give fans an opportunity to see what the Tigers redshirt players and depth chart have to offer.

The Clemson defense biggest advantage of 2016 was its youth. The defense returns seven starters from last year’s squad which allowed 18.0 points per game, 10th in the FBS. Defensive tackle, the secondary and linebackers will be key areas of focus in the spring. With experience returning, there could be no need to panic in Clemson.

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