Clemson Football: 5 Fixes Tigers must make before 2019

(Photo by Mike Comer/Getty Images)
(Photo by Mike Comer/Getty Images)
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Clemson football fans may still be celebrating their national championship victory, but Dabo Swinney and company should focus their attention on addressing these five areas of concern before the start of the 2019 season.

Following a record-setting undefeated season that culminated in a dominant national championship victory over Alabama, the Clemson Tigers emphatically seized the title of college football’s elite program. With this prestige and the added pressure to grow their dynasty, Clemson will face fresh challenges in 2019 – from both inside and outside the program.

Dabo Swinney is cognizant of the grind required to grow and maintain a successful program. His awareness became obvious when he announced during the national championship trophy presentation that the team would celebrate their victory that Monday night, but quickly turn their attention to the 2019 season during a team meeting on Friday.

With the hope of a repeat in mind, here are five areas of concern Clemson should fix before the start of the 2019 season.

5. Rebuild the defensive line

The not-so-secret ingredient to Clemson’s dominant defense in 2018 was its overwhelming talent on the defensive line. Headlined by three likely first-round picks, the Clemson defensive line propelled their defense to the top-rated overall ranking in 2018 according to Football Outsiders.

Replacing all four starting defensive linemen – due to two early departures (Clelin Ferrell and Dexter Lawrence) and two graduations (Christian Wilkins and Austin Bryant) – for the upcoming season will be the paramount task for defensive coordinator Brent Venables. Daunting though it may be, retooling the defensive line is possible thanks to solid recruiting at the position.

The potential certainly exists for Clemson’s defensive line to continue its dominance. Former five-star prospects Xavier Thomas and K.J Henry lead a group of unproven but talented players who will be forced into the spotlight. Their growth and maturity will likely determine Clemson’s overall defensive success in 2019.