Clemson Football: 5 breakout candidates in 2017 spring game
Linebacker Dorian O’Daniel is another player returning on the Clemson Tigers defense. He started in 10 games this past season but with an opening at linebacker, he’ll need to step up his play.
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O’Daniel had 54 total tackles (37 solo, 17 assisted), 10.0 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, an interception and a forced fumble through 13 games in 2016. He caught his first interception of the season in Week Two against Troy. He also recorded four total tackles.
With Ben Boulware leaving and linebacker Kendall Joseph looking to transition to his position at weakside linebacker, it gives O’Daniel a chance to step up this spring. He held his starting role to end the past season but with other players battling for playing time, O’Daniel’s progression could increase.
The rising senior returns along with Joseph and backup Tre Lamar, who is trying out for the middle linebacker position. A strong spring will give O’Daniel a chance to start at the position. After all, there aren’t anymore linebackers incoming in the 2017 recruiting class this fall.