Clemson LB named on ESPN's ACC Defensive Breakout candidates |
ESPN released it latest article on Wednesday as it ranked the
ACC defensive breakout candidates for 2016 and Clemson linebacker
Dorian O'Daniel was one of the six players featured.
"According to Clemson defensive coordinator Brent Venables, O'Daniel was one of the stars of the offseason for the Tigers, culminating with a 4.45 time in the 40-yard dash," ESPN said. "In other words, O'Daniel is a tremendous athlete who's ready to turn the corner on the field. He'll step into some big shoes vacated by B.J. Goodson (108 tackles in 2015), a job he filled versus Georgia Tech last year that resulted in 10 tackles, a sack and a forced fumble. And with Auburn up first on the 2016 slate, O'Daniel should have a shot to prove himself right off the bat." O'Daniel spoke to TigerNet recently and had the following to say about his thoughts on becoming more involved with the defense. "Definitely feels good [increased role]," O'Daniel said. "Definitely a confidence booster. I put a lot of hard work in this offseason to where I feel like I deserve it. I can't stop now I have to keep working and keep getting better every day. Just very humbling and I am very excited about my opportunity because I have been waiting for a very long time. I have been very patient. I have paid my dues. Now I am just ready to reap the benefits." He has 63 tackles including 32 tackles on special teams in 27 career games. Clemson cornerback Mark Fields was also mentioned as "Others to watch" by ESPN.
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