Clemson Needs to Overcome Crucial Losses

Clemson coach Tommy Bowden is heavily involved in his team's offensive play-calling, but he might focus more of his attention on defense this season.

The Tigers (9-3 overall, 6-2 in the ACC last season) are without Keith Adams, last year's defensive leader, who opted to leave early for the NFL.

But despite losing its main defensive threat, Clemson has been picked by the ACC media to finish third in the conference behind Florida State and Georgia Tech.

Expectations in Death Valley remain high with the return of Heisman Trophy candidate Woodrow Dantzler, the Tigers' do-it-all quarterback. Dantzler's running and throwing abilities make him one of the most potent offensive threats in the conference.

In 2000, Dantzler threw for 1,871 yards, including 10 touchdowns, and set a single-season Clemson record for total offense with 2,899 yards. He added 13 rushing touchdowns for the Tigers.

But Dantzler will work under center without his favorite target. Wide receiver Rod Gardner graduated, prompting Dantzler to look for different answers in Clemson's passing game.

"I wouldn't try to fill his shoes with anyone," Dantzler said. "It is going to be more of a team effort with all four receivers at any given time."

An inexperienced receiver corps may place more running assignments on Dantzler.

And while he had no problem taking on the role, it could easily lead to an injury. Dantzler already suffered the same fate at North Carolina last year on a running play, and the Tigers can ill afford to have the same happen this season.

Especially with a defense that is untested and young. Clemson lost nine defensive players from its 2000 team.

"With defense being the key to a successful season, that's the biggest question mark," Bowden said. "We lost a lot of players, and we don't have as much depth and experience defensively."

Last year's squad ranked second in the ACC in scoring defense and third in total defense. But with just four starters returning, it's a whole new ball game for the Clemson defense, a defense that will be tested in the Tigers' season opener against Central Florida.

Bowden will turn to Butkus Award candidate Chad Carson to lead the Tigers' defense. Stepping in for the talented Adams, Carson must fill the void the second-round draft pick left.

"I think it is positive pressure because Keith was a great leader, and I've learned from him," Carson said.