Expect Watson's running ability to be major part of offensive plan |
Clemson fans either gasp or hold their breath when quarterback
Deshaun Watson
Deshaun Watson Better get used to it, because Watson’s running ability is going to be a major part of the Clemson offense going forward. Watson’s injury history is well known – he suffered a torn ACL in November but still managed to beat South Carolina; before that, he had missed the bulk of four games because of a broken finger suffered while using his hand to brace a fall during Clemson’s win over Louisville; prior to that, he sat out the final weeks of 2014 spring practice because of a cracked collarbone suffered in a live scrimmage. The injury held him out of the spring game and, perhaps, kept him from opening the season atop the depth chart. Clemson’s chances of winning the ACC Atlantic and maybe even making a run at the College Football Playoff might very well hinge on Watson’s health, but the Gainesville native carried the ball 12 times for 61 yards in Clemson’s Thursday win at Louisville. Expect to see more. “It was good to see Deshaun getting involved in the running game. He made a difference,” co-offensive coordinator
Jeff ScottJeff Scott Watson said he knew his running would be a major part of the game plan and he was happy because he was almost pain-free after the outing. “I knew going into the game I was going to have to run more. That is what the gameplan was about,” Watson said. “As the season progresses I am going to have be able to rely on my legs a little more. It was good to get out there and move around, especially coming off a knee injury. Me knee felt great. I didn't have any problems with it. Even after the game, my knee felt better than after the App St. game. I was comfortable with the play-calling and I was excited about what they had planned. We came out and got the victory.” Watson said he felt more and more comfortable with each carry. “The offensive line and the receivers did a great job of blocking and opening the holes for me and Wayne (Gallman). As I progressed throughout the game I felt more comfortable,” he said. “Each player will tell you they get more comfortable as the games goes on and they get better and better.” Watson had a chance to break a long run early in the first half but got tripped up – much to his chagrin. “I was a little disappointed in myself. I should have kept running and I probably could have scored,” he said with a smile. “I knew I was close. It's just getting back in the groove of things and being patient and one of those runs will turn into a long run for a touchdown one of these games. I will keep being patient and trusting my reads.”
So. Quarterback
#4 6-2, 207
Gainesville, GA
View Full Profile
runs the football or takes a hit, and Death Valley even grew silent when Watson fell to the grass during the win over Appalachian St.
Co-Offensive Coordinator / WR
View Full Profile
said Monday. “When we spread them all out and you have a lot of weapons your quarterback can make a difference. Deshaun really brought something to our running game. They were going to stay back and force us to be patient and run the football. Their game plan was to see if we could run the ball well enough to run it all the way down or be patient.”
Unlock premium boards and exclusive features (e.g. ad-free) by upgrading your account today.
Upgrade Now