Clemson Football: 3 players who’ll become stars in 2021

3. Lyn-J Dixon, RB

The Tigers have seen many elite running backs as they were building up to the elite program they are now. Travis Etienne has been one of the most versatile and explosive offensive playmakers for the Tigers in several seasons. Etienne finished his fantastic career with 686 carries for 4,952 yards and 70 touchdowns. He also caught 102 passes for 1,155 yards and eight touchdowns.

It will take a special player to replicate the same amount of impact that Etienne had for the Tigers. Next up for the Tigers leading the backfield is senior running back Lyn-J Dixon, who has been providing a significant role since his freshman years. He will finally get a chance to start for the Tigers as the most experienced back on the team.

Dixon has rushed for 1,372 yards and 13 touchdowns on 208 carries in his three seasons at Clemson. His most impactful season was his sophomore year in 2019 when he rushed for 635 yards and six touchdowns on 104 carries as well as accounting for 14 receptions for 121 yards.

While he is not as explosive with speed or quickness as Etienne, Dixon is a tough back to bring down. He has good breakout speed once he is past the line of scrimmage. He is also a shifty back that can make jukes and cuts by shifting to different holes at the line of scrimmage.

Under a new quarterback, the Tigers will look to run the ball more to relieve pressure from the new starting quarterback. Not only does Dixon have the experience but he has the talent to become an instant star playmaker for the Tigers in 2021.