Clemson has historically produced a lot of good running backs. C.J. Spiller, Travis Etienne, Ray-Ray McCloud, Wayne Gallman, and others have toted the rock for the Tigers and done really well. In 2025, that might not be the case, especially with Phil Mafah not in the mix anymore.
With a moderately easy conference, a really good quarterback, and one of the best coaches in the sport, Clemson seems to have all the pieces for a legitimate title run this year. Unfortunately, that backfield might be why they don't get a ring, ESPN analyst Andrea Adelson said.
"The position group that has been discussed more than any other since the spring at Clemson is running back -- the only position on offense that loses the bulk of its production with Phil Mafah off to the NFL," Adelson said. "But the Tigers have plenty of depth at running back, and that should help ease any concerns as they move into fall camp."
However, since the position is traditionally something Clemson has ample quality in and usually excels, this is a new issue. They've had a 1,000-yard rusher 11 of the past 16 seasons, not including 2023 when two backs (Mafah and Will Shipley) combined for over 1,700 between the two.
"It is easy to see true freshman Gideon Davidson as a breakout player, considering the success Clemson has had with true freshman backs since Dabo Swinney arrived," Adelson said. "Clemson also has receiver Adam Randall taking reps at running back to help round out the depth in a room that also features Keith Adams Jr. and David Eziomume. Jay Haynes continues to rehab a knee injury."
Still, depending on a true freshman to break out and be your go-to running back is perhaps risky. Clemson is good enough in other areas to potentially avoid too many problems, but the backfield will easily be one to watch as they attempt to win the ACC yet again.