CLEMSON FOOTBALL

Five Tigers named to ESPN's Top 50 players

Five Tigers named to ESPN's Top 50 players


by - Assoc. Editor -

ESPN released their College Football Top 50 players heading into the bowl season and five Clemson players were ranked on the list.

Heisman runner-up Deshaun Watson was named the #4 overall player behind only Jonathan Allen, Dede Westbrook, and Lamar Jackson.

"A year ago, Watson nearly single-handedly led Clemson to a national championship, so the task will at least be a familiar one this season," ESPN.com said. "Watson has played his best football during November and December (1,784 yards, 20 TDs) and has the Tigers' offense clicking in time for a tough matchup with Ohio State's defense."

For the season, Watson has completed 329 of 487 passes for 3914 yards and 37 touchdowns. He ranks fourth in the nation in completions, fifth in touchdown passes and eighth in completion percentage and eighth in total offense. His 37 touchdown passes are a Clemson season record.

Christian Wilkins was ranked #29 on the list.

"In last year's playoff semifinal against Oklahoma, Wilkins proved to be Clemson's secret weapon, catching a pass on a fake punt that served as a turning point in the game," ESPN.com said. "This year, there's no secret about what Wilkins brings to the table. He's one of the most athletic linemen in the country, and he'll be tasked with stuffing Ohio State's big-play ground game."

Other Clemson players ranked were Mike Williams (#34), linebacker Ben Boulware (#43), and defensive tackle Carlos Watkins.

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