(File photo from David Grooms)
Clemson’s first scrimmage of fall camp was moved to the indoor practice facility due to rain, Saturday, meaning the offense didn’t have to contend with inclement weather. But the real disruptive factor was the Tigers’ defensive line.
Head coach Dabo Swinney had nothing but acclaim for Brent Venables’ unit following the scrimmage, “Defense played clean and with discipline. I can’t remember the last time we played a scrimmage without any defensive penalties.” Swinney saved his highest praise for the defensive line, “Super impressed with those guys …. I didn’t see any drop off from either of the (DL) groups.”
Big things are expected from a DL group featuring Myles Murphy, Bryan Bresee and Tyler Davis. But Swinney also singled out the play of edge rusher Xavier Thomas, “XT looks awesome. Looks like a fast, strong, physical, experienced version of Xavier Thomas … He’s going to have a great year for us.”
Clemson’s defense saw a pass-heavy attack as the staff wanted to evaluate the protection schemes, some young players at the wide receiver positions and “challenge D.J.(Uiagalelei).”
The Tigers had scheduled their first scrimmage for Saturday morning, but it was moved to the afternoon so Swinney could attend the service of Bobby Bowden in Tallahassee.
