Tavien Feaster helping Travis Etienne, says "I got better today" after scrimmage

Feaster had an 80-yard run during Saturday's scrimmage

by David Hood - Senior Writer - Mon Aug 21 13:18:03 GMT-04:00 2017

CLEMSON – Running back Tavien Feaster was down after last Wednesday’s scrimmage, but he rebounded with a big day in Saturday’s final scrimmage of camp and now says he feels like he’s ready to start the season.

Feaster had nine carries for 105 yards in the scrimmage, and that included an 80-yard run that had the entire stadium buzzing. It was a rebound day, of sorts, for both Feaster and the Clemson offense.

“I think offensively we had a good day. We brought the energy and we stepped up. Everybody definitely showed what they have on offense,” Feaster said. “I definitely think I took a huge step today, just running the ball and pass blocking. I think I got better today. Not quite where I want to be, but I did better.”

Feaster told the media last week that he felt responsible for the lackluster play of the offense.

“I feel like I let my teammates down. Some days I play to get by, but I have to turn it up these last few days of camp and prove to them that I can play this year,” Feaster said. “I feel like I am close (to being where he needs to be) and then some days I feel like I fall back a little bit. I have to be more consistent, and I have to be ready when my day comes. I respect everybody in the room and I know how hard they work. If somebody beats me out I have to respect that and work harder to beat him out.”

Saturday’s effort brought a smile back to his face.

“I would say this was one of my better days. I was a little down and had to pick myself up,” he said. “I think today and showed the coaches everything I had to give.”

Feaster is battling veterans Adam Choice and C.J. Fuller and freshman Travis Etienne for playing time, and he said that all of the backs have had strong camps.

“I think everybody ran well today. A.C. (Choice), he got back and ran hard. Fuller had some great runs. Travis, he is talented. He is really talented. He is going full speed. He has really shined this camp, but I think everybody has shined this camp when they've been healthy. There is stiff competition in the room and it is all going to push us to be the best.”

Feaster knows that Etienne will push for playing time, but still takes the time to help the Tiger rookie.

“I am just giving him a helping hand, the same way guys helped me when I walked into the room,” Feaster said. “I wanted to welcome him and I am giving him the advice the coaches gave me. How to work on your technique. You have to bring it every play, and once he gets that down he is going to be a special player.”

What does he feel like he needs to do to earn the starting spot?

“I have to stay locked in and focused on what I can do,” he said. “I have to put myself in position to be first. Do the right things in the coaches' eyes and let it all play out.”