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Clemson Football: 5 position battles to watch during 2017 spring game

By Jerran Anderson

December 31, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Clemson Tigers defensive lineman Christian Wilkins (42) celebrates with defensive end Clelin Ferrell (99) against the Ohio State Buckeyes during the second half of the the 2016 CFP semifinal at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
December 31, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Clemson Tigers defensive lineman Christian Wilkins (42) celebrates with defensive end Clelin Ferrell (99) against the Ohio State Buckeyes during the second half of the the 2016 CFP semifinal at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 3, 2016; Auburn, AL, USA; Clemson football linebacker Kendall Joseph (34) and linebacker Ben Boulware (10) wrap up Auburn Tigers wide receiver Stanton Truitt (10) during the first quarter at Jordan Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 3, 2016; Auburn, AL, USA; Clemson football linebacker Kendall Joseph (34) and linebacker Ben Boulware (10) wrap up Auburn Tigers wide receiver Stanton Truitt (10) during the first quarter at Jordan Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Linebacker

Clemson Tigers defense returns seven starters on defense. But the key positions they need to replace are at linebacker and in the secondary.

Inside linebacker Kendall Joseph was the team’s second-leading tackler a season ago. He had 106 total tackles (59 solo, 47 assisted), 11.5 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, an interception and a forced fumble. This spring he’s been playing the weakside linebacker spot, Ben Boulware’s old position.

After playing on the inside, Joseph earned the team’s Most Improved Award on defense in 2016 for his performance. This spring, he’ll have the chance to step up and be the leader on defense.

Middle linebacker Tre Lamar is also playing exclusively at the middle linebacker spot. Lamar only had 17 total tackles, 3.0 tackles for loss and a sack but he’ll be a sophomore in 2017. He has an opportunity to take on the MIKE position for years to come.

Linebacker Dorian O’Daniel is also an intriguing candidate at the strongside linebacker position. He recorded 54 total tackles (37 solo, 17 assisted), 10.0 tackles for loss. 2.5 sacks, an interception and a forced fumble in 2016. He started in the National Championship at his position. Taking on a larger role this spring, O’Daniel will be a name to watch entering the fall season.

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