In their first game against Georgia Tech, Clemson’s defensive line allowed the Yellow Jackets to rush for 3.0 yards per carry. It was a good performance, but not the kind of numbers the unit has produced in the last couple of years.
Last year, with Christian Wilkins, Clelin Ferrell, Dexter Lawrence and Austin Bryant, Clemson’s opponents averaged just 2.51 yards per carry, which led the nation. The Tigers also led the nation in tackles behind the line of scrimmage.
In Saturday’s 24-10 victory over No. 12 Texas A&M, though it may not have looked like last year’s defensive front, the big guys up front looked much better.