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Replies: 33
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Standout [340]
TigerPulse: 77%
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Running back position next year?
Dec 15, 2020, 9:49 PM
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Thinking a little about next year (two weeks off does this) and the RB position comes to the frontal lobe. After Bowman left and ET graduating, the position seems a little slim.
We have returning:
Kobe Pace (FR)
Mike Dukes (SO)
Lynn Dixon (JR)
Chez Mellusi (SO)
Sylvester Mayers (JR)
Ty Lucas (SO)
2021 Commits:
Phil Mafah (injured)
Will Shipley (ATH)
Honestly haven't looked in detail at these, but none stand out as an ET type player with Dixon having the only real significant experience.
Seems overall a concern area, but that's just my 2 cents. Others overall thoughts for 2021 on the position?
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Athletic Dir [862]
TigerPulse: 100%
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+ Lyn J***
Dec 15, 2020, 9:52 PM
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CU Medallion [20890]
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Joined: 2010
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Re: Running back position next year?
Dec 15, 2020, 10:02 PM
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I can see Shipley working into some reps and possibly slot reps as he learns the playbook and learns how to block at college level. But the position looks wide open to me. Who wants it and puts in the work this summer?
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All-Pro [774]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Re: Running back position next year?
Dec 15, 2020, 10:03 PM
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It'll be a committee year like ETN's freshmen year.. but with a great passing game this time around.
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National Champion [8071]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Running back position next year - loaded!
Dec 15, 2020, 10:12 PM
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Travis Etienne's are not growing on trees! So, do not go there, if you want to be fair to literally every RB who will play college ball "IN THE COUNTRY" not just Clemson! So there is that!
Shipley is the real deal - I think where he will help the Tigers out the most immediately is on those plays to the RB in the flat! He's fast and has soft hands! Already a good pass catching RB. Will he and can he pick up pass pro will be the question.
Same with Mafah. You say he is injured but Mafah was reportedly saying he, "just tweaked his ankle" in that playoff win versus Tift.
I love current backs: Pace and Melussi! I like Dukes as well - he has Etienne type vision; just not the same speed.
Lynn J - awesome in his reserve role. How will he react to being the lead back? I think he will handle it well. Well enough. If not, I would put Pace or Melussi out there and play them a ton of minutes. They both have very good skill sets.
In my opinion we are loaded at RB and I am not worried about this group at all.
Same with DL and WR and Safety and DB. Next season the only position group in my mind Tigers fans would need to worry about is: Offensive Line especially if Jackson leaves. TE is set. WR is going to be ridiculous - if everybody can stay healthy and if EJ continues to develop like he has! DL with Bresee, Capehart, Murphy, Henry, Mascol, Thomas, Foster, Williams & Williams, whew! Gahh - leee! LB with Simpson, Jones, Bentley, Spector, Skalski, Venables and the new guys look the part. DB and Safety will bring back a ton of guys who played a bunch of minutes - even if DK makes a unwise opinion (i.m.o) to go pro. He needs another year! But, we solid in the defensive backfield and there are guys waiting to break out and be stars back there.
Yep, only worried about OL>
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Standout [340]
TigerPulse: 77%
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Re: Running back position next year - loaded!
Dec 15, 2020, 10:32 PM
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Don't really care about other RBs in the nation or trying to be fair or unfair to the collective lot. Just a simple question of others opinions on only the RB position not the entire team. Overall good insight, but can do without the sarcasm.
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Asst Coach [702]
TigerPulse: 99%
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Mafah is a H. Walker clone but bigger.
Dec 15, 2020, 10:18 PM
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Nm
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National Champion [8071]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Re: Mafah is a H. Walker clone but bigger.
Dec 15, 2020, 10:34 PM
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Nm
Be interesting to see us have a bunch of the same principles on offense; but with more committiment to inside power running. It would make play action with DJU something fierce! Mafah is just the type of back to carry the mail in that style of play. Or any of our backs!
1st things 1st - the OL has to get overhauled and worked on in a big way. Don't know if we missed on prospects or if guys just worked on pass blocking or what - but this group isn't the most physical you will find. I look for that to be self-scout-target #1 in the off season!
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National Champion [8071]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Re: Mafah is a H. Walker clone but bigger.
Dec 15, 2020, 10:48 PM
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Assuming Lynn J is back healthy my list based on what I have seen! And based on player interviews about who brings it in practice "for next year "would be:
1. Lynn J - experience.
2. Melussi - has had some run in still contested games! And is solid!
3. Pace - Easy #1 candidate. Has the "potential" to be a big star!
4. Dukes - I love his vision and short area quickness. Just needs snaps!
5. Shipley - Feaster 2.0.? Lots of hype b/c of hands(good pass catcher) and speed.
6. Mafah - Has the power and enough speed to give defenses fits.
7. Mayers
8. Lucas
OP also assumes the two freshmen are on campus and don't surprise when it comes to actually signing. Honestly, between Lynn J, Melussi and Pace - if we didn't have the rest listed - I would be good with those 3. I think we could win a ton of games with those three. Then throw in Dukes - who I think will end up being a really good player! Shipley and Mafah get to learn on the job behind some nice talent! We set at RB! We just need to address the OL because, even the "Arguably" the best RB in Clemson history struggles if the OL isn't up to par! All these guys will get it done; if given a hole!
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Rival Killer [2893]
TigerPulse: 93%
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Yikes. Scares me a bit to see Shipley compared to Feaster
Dec 15, 2020, 10:59 PM
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Hopefully that was a typo!
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Asst Coach [702]
TigerPulse: 99%
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I see Shipley compared more like Spiller with more power.***
Dec 16, 2020, 7:00 PM
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Ultimate Tiger [36452]
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Rival Killer [2850]
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Tiger Titan [48079]
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Legend [6955]
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That is a really brave comparison. Herschel Walker might
Dec 16, 2020, 6:27 AM
[ in reply to Mafah is a H. Walker clone but bigger. ] |
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be the greatest college running back of all time. Hope you are right
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110%er [3677]
TigerPulse: 100%
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I'm very concerned about the position
Dec 16, 2020, 12:07 AM
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because we don't have a returning player that's shown the talent to be a worthy #1 back.
LJD is a decent backup, but a below-average starter for our program.
Obviously all of the other returning RBs grade lower than LJD. Kobe Pace is the only returning RB I'm really looking forward to.
I'm a huge believer in Shipley and have no doubt he will be a stud for us. But freshmen seasons from RBs "are like a box of chocolates". We don't know what we'll get from him in 2021.
Mafah is very intriguing. His upright running style is concerning, which makes me worry. On the other hand, his upside is crazy.
The 500-lb gorilla in the room is our O-line. If they are much better, our ground game will be fine. We just won't have a threat that can take it to the house every time they touch the ball. If the O-line is like this year's, our offense will struggle.
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Game Changer [1900]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Re: Running back position next year?
Dec 16, 2020, 4:07 AM
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I don't think RB is that thin. How about QB? If anyone transfers out over the Summer or God forbid, our starter gets injured next season, eeekk. I'm sure the coaches have it covered.
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Tiger Titan [48079]
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Re: Running back position next year?
Dec 16, 2020, 6:44 AM
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How many teams have 2 great QB's?
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National Champion [7686]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Re: Running back position next year?
Dec 16, 2020, 8:37 AM
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I understand the concern but nobody thought ETN was going to become an all time great when he was an incoming freshman either so it's hard to predict who will shine once he's gone. Lots of very talented guys on that list we just need to coach up and put in a position to succeed.
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Clemson Conqueror [11484]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Re: Running back position next year?
Dec 16, 2020, 9:44 AM
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ETN didn't look like ETN before he saw the field as a Tiger.
He also didn't have to play behind a guy like himself.
ETN came in with Feaster as the starter, who didn't ever take hold of the position.
He also came in with Choice recovering from injury and had basically fallen into career backup mode.
Anybody currently on the team besides ETN has had to sit back in ETN's shadow to wait for their time to shine.
Everybody thought Dixon was going to be a star until he had a little down year this season.
Dukes will be the only scholarship back in the room next year who isn't at least a 4 star by at least one service.
Four 4 star players and a 5 star player at RB heading into 2021.
How exactly are we thin?
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Dynasty Maker [3385]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Re: Running back position next year?
Dec 16, 2020, 7:17 PM
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TU for making me think about ETN not getting in the game because ETN is the starter.
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Tiger Spirit [9788]
TigerPulse: 100%
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With all the connections I have with the coaches -
Dec 16, 2020, 9:48 AM
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None, here's what's going to happen. Lynn J as the starter, Melussi and Dukes getting lots of time and the new guys spotting during blowouts. Then someone or 2 will rise to the top and get more touches.
Also, water is wet.
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Playmaker [368]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Re: With all the connections I have with the coaches -
Dec 16, 2020, 11:36 AM
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TU for the water diagnosis!
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Tiger Spirit [9788]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Re: With all the connections I have with the coaches -
Dec 16, 2020, 3:13 PM
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Thanks, feels good to be recognized for scholarship and nalledge.
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TigerNet Champion [121111]
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Re: Running back position next year?
Dec 16, 2020, 9:50 AM
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LJ has yet to prove he can take 20 snaps, I do not think he is that durable to make an entire season carrying the bulk of the load.. Pace and Mellusi are solid, but not like what we have had in the past. You can scratch off the others. I am hoping Mafa is as advertised. he can really move for a big guy.
i have shipley moving over to the Slot, hope he proves me wrong but i think he is a 1 trick pony as a back, using his speed to outrun guys to the edge at the HS level will not work at Clemson. That is all I am seeing in his film, he runs around left tackle and just beats everyone to the sideline on every play.
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Top TigerNet [30896]
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Re: Running back position next year?
Dec 16, 2020, 10:06 AM
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As is always the case. Someone will separate themselves from the pack. Whether it be in Fall camp or three games into the 2021 season. It will be fun watching it either way
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Paw Warrior [4836]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Re: Running back position next year?
Dec 16, 2020, 10:55 AM
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ET is a once in a generation player and he's the best we've had in a really long time.
You can't expect the person replacing him to be the same.
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National Champion [7998]
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It was Bowmans to lose next year and he quit on us. But the
Dec 16, 2020, 11:56 AM
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guys we'll have on this team will step up.
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Ring of Honor [21656]
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Re: Running back position next year?
Dec 16, 2020, 12:01 PM
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We've actually got really good RB's. We just don't have a generational guy like Etienne anymore.
Big problem will be the OL. It isn't good enough right now and I suspect it's probably about to end our season, if you want my frank opinion. If it can develop well enough to get the inside zone going, with our receivers (if healthy) and DJU's ability to stretch the field, they'll be more than good enough. Just stick your foot in the ground and slash it up between the tackles; we've got 3-4 that can do that and Shipley will add a pass-catching dimension out of the backfield.
Lot more concerned about the OL than I am the backs.
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110%er [4043]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Re: Running back position next year?
Dec 16, 2020, 3:03 PM
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We've actually got really good RB's. We just don't have a generational guy like Etienne anymore.
Big problem will be the OL. It isn't good enough right now and I suspect it's probably about to end our season, if you want my frank opinion. If it can develop well enough to get the inside zone going, with our receivers (if healthy) and DJU's ability to stretch the field, they'll be more than good enough. Just stick your foot in the ground and slash it up between the tackles; we've got 3-4 that can do that and Shipley will add a pass-catching dimension out of the backfield.
Lot more concerned about the OL than I am the backs.
Curious, Q - are you saying we may look about the same at Oline next year as now in results?
I figured another year of these boys building on this year and we might see something better experience and strength wise next year since it's a relatively young bunch.
Our recruiting seems to have picked up some based on what I read about the Oline but I'm more of a fan than a talent evaluator.
Glad to see you say something this year compared to last year at this time becuz I kept waiting to see a write up before the LSU game to see your thoughts but I suppose in retrospect it was because people would argue about your points made
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National Champion [8071]
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Re: Running back position next year?
Dec 16, 2020, 8:17 PM
[ in reply to Re: Running back position next year? ] |
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We've actually got really good RB's. We just don't have a generational guy like Etienne anymore.
Big problem will be the OL. It isn't good enough right now and I suspect it's probably about to end our season, if you want my frank opinion. If it can develop well enough to get the inside zone going, with our receivers (if healthy) and DJU's ability to stretch the field, they'll be more than good enough. Just stick your foot in the ground and slash it up between the tackles; we've got 3-4 that can do that and Shipley will add a pass-catching dimension out of the backfield.
Lot more concerned about the OL than I am the backs.
Exactly my thoughts regarding our backs! They were all "as highly regarded coming out of H.S. as Travis was"! In fact, Rivals had Travis as a 3 star. ESPN had him as a 4 star and I believe just inside the 300 range. There were several backs ahead of him. Said all that to say - "we really don't know how good many of our other backs are because of how good Travis is"! I feel bad for whoever gets the most carries or two who get the most b/c for a while everyone will be comparing whoever to TE9.
But, much like TE9, Kobe Pace was the talk of camp! I first remember hearing stories about Travis from the players talking about him in camp and practice. I have heard nothing but high marks about Pace as well!
Granted - they aren't quite as high as the talk was about Travis; but they pretty much are all very impressed with his play!
Personally, I think Melussi will end up getting the most carries next year! He runs hard and seems to do pretty well in pass pro. Still needs work - but who doesn't. All Pro RB's in the NFL miss pass pro assignments from time to time.
As you said Q - I am far and away and it is not even close - more concerned with how we are going to look on the OL next year! Stewart is likely gone, correct( he is a grad student already starting for the 1st time). Jackson may very well be leaving for the league! Could this be the year with the transfer rules coming for 1 time only in January - Dabo takes a LT transfer? I doubt it - but who knows!
With the talent the defense has coming back next season and all the new pieces there - we won't have to be the Bama line from a few seasons ago good. We will just have to be at least slightly above average! Our RB room will in no way shape or form be void of talent! Not even close. Go back and check these guys film out!
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CU Medallion [20802]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Joined: 2012
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LJ reminds me of a bigger Andre Ellington
Dec 16, 2020, 12:18 PM
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Not sure why LJ doesn't get as much love as I think he deserves. Most likely because he is not ETN and he gets limited carries. But I see a lot of Ellington in him... neither had top end speed but both were slippery.. except I think LJ is stronger.
I expect him to be a 1,000 yd back next year if given the chance ... and if the OL is serviceable.
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Clemson Conqueror [11484]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Re: LJ reminds me of a bigger Andre Ellington
Dec 16, 2020, 12:43 PM
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Dixon is listed as an inch taller than Ellington and the same weight.
He also runs much softer than Ellington between the tackles.
Ellington was a much stronger back than Lyn J and prior to Gallman was maybe our best pass blocking RB in Dabo's time at Clemson.
Dixon is also slower to the hole and top end than Ellington. Ellington ran a sub 4.5 40.
Dixon is more comparable to Rod McDowell or DJ Howard which were still good backs, but Lyn J is not going to be a starting RB in the NFL for any amount of time.
Ellington's career in the NFL would have been even longer if he could have stayed on the field.
Ellington was a top 10 RB in Clemson history who played behind Spiller as a freshman and split time with Jamie Harper for his sophomore season when he was injured a good bit.
I really hope Dixon shines next year and even for the remainder of this season, but he is not near the player that Ellington was even at the same point in Ellington's career.
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110%er [4043]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Re: LJ reminds me of a bigger Andre Ellington
Dec 16, 2020, 2:58 PM
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Dixon is listed as an inch taller than Ellington and the same weight.
He also runs much softer than Ellington between the tackles.
Ellington was a much stronger back than Lyn J and prior to Gallman was maybe our best pass blocking RB in Dabo's time at Clemson.
Dixon is also slower to the hole and top end than Ellington. Ellington ran a sub 4.5 40.
Dixon is more comparable to Rod McDowell or DJ Howard which were still good backs, but Lyn J is not going to be a starting RB in the NFL for any amount of time.
Ellington's career in the NFL would have been even longer if he could have stayed on the field.
Ellington was a top 10 RB in Clemson history who played behind Spiller as a freshman and split time with Jamie Harper for his sophomore season when he was injured a good bit.
I really hope Dixon shines next year and even for the remainder of this season, but he is not near the player that Ellington was even at the same point in Ellington's career.
Uh, Andre Ellington ran a 4.6 at the combine.
Overall, I think your comparison isn't too far off though but Dixon has some explosiveness just not like ETN...probably closer to Wayne Gallman-like where he can break a long gain but he's not going to outrun elite speed.
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Replies: 33
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