Clemson Football: 5 reasons why the Tigers will struggle in 2017

TAMPA, FL - JANUARY 09: Head coach Dabo Swinney of the Clemson Tigers reacts after defeating the Alabama Crimson Tide 35-31 to win the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium on January 9, 2017 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images) /

3 of 6

GLENDALE, AZ – JANUARY 11: Mackensie Alexander #2 and Austin Bryant #91 of the Clemson Tigers celebrates a missed field goal in the first quarter by Adam Griffith #99 of the Alabama Crimson Tide during the 2016 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at University of Phoenix Stadium on January 11, 2016 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /

4. Defensive line has to carry the load on defense

Clemson’s defensive line is one of the best in the country. The combination of defensive tackles Christian Wilkins and Dexter Lawrence and defensive ends Clelin Ferrell and Austin Bryant is a nearly unstoppable group.

However, the rest of the defense could struggle to keep up with the defensive line. The secondary is lacking now with Ryan Carter, Marcus Edmond, and Korrin Wiggins as the most experienced options. Yet, Edmond and Wiggins probably won’t start most games in 2017.

The linebacking corps relies on redshirt senior Dorian O’Daniel to lead the group. Former star linebacker Ben Boulware will be missed after he departed for the NFL, now with the Carolina Panthers.

Don’t be surprised if Clemson has a solid defense in 2017, but nothing like they had in year’s past when they faced Alabama in back-to-back National Championship Games.

Home/Clemson Tigers