3 Biggest Assets for the Tigers Heading into the Sprin

The Clemson Tigers start spring practice in approximately 6 weeks, with that in mind, we give you the 3 biggest assets for the Tigers as they begin their pursuit for another national title.

Tony Elliott: Clemson offensive coordinator Tony Elliott recently spurned the NFL suitors, for now, stating his intent to return to lead the Clemson offense for the 2021 season. 

If one thing was made clear in the Tigers' 2020 Sugar Bowl loss to Ohio State it was the importance that Elliott plays in the offensive success. Sure, Brandon Streeter is the heir apparent to the play-calling duties, but there is still some time before he is fully ready to accept that role. So for the time being, every season that Elliott is on the staff, he is one of the key pieces for the Tigers.

WRU: Let's not talk about the incoming freshmen, who are all elite talents, but let's talk about the elite receivers that will be on the field—healthy—this season.

Justyn Ross, should he clear the medical hurdles, returns and immediately brings a proven playmaker to the Tigers. Add in a healthy Joseph Ngata, Frank Ladson Jr., and freshmen E.J. Williams and Ajou Ajou, and redshirt freshman Brannon Spector this may be the greatest receiving corp in Clemson history. 

Defense: The Clemson defense returns 12 starters, that is right, not 11, but 12 starters with the announcement that Xavier Thomas is returning to school for another season.

The Tigers return every starter off last year's team, with multiple players taking advantage of the NCAA giving an extra year of eligibility due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Could this be the greatest defense of all-time, it is too early to say, but it is not out of the realm of possibility.