2007 DL Preview

By: Roy Philpott

In looking at Clemson's defensive line entering the start of fall practice it's hard not to get excited. Even after losing last year's ACC Defensive Player of the Year in end Gaines Adams, this year's front four has the chance to be just as productive if not more so than last season's group.

That's not to suggest there isn't room for improvement, because there is, but certainly enough returning talent exists for his unit to become something very special.

Keep in mind, it will be important for Clemson's front seven to get more pressure on the quarterback this year. While Adams was effective doing so last season, there were games against Boston College, Maryland,and South Carolina where opposing quarterbacks sat in the pocket and picked the Tigers' zone scheme apart because they had all day to throw the ball.

In addition, with young corners taking over in the secondary, a strong pass rush becomes especially important.

Here's a quick look at the two-deep depth chart headed into the start of practice Saturday afternoon:

DE: Phillip Merling, Jamie Cumbie
Merling, a 6-5, 270 pound junior end is widely viewed as one of the up-and-coming players in the league and could also be poised to take over a leadership role on defense this season. Unlike Gaines Adams a year ago, Merling isn't afraid to get in your face if feels you aren't doing your job. His stats last year, which included 46 total tackles, 10 for loss and three sacks, should all increase in 2007. Sophomore Jamie Cumbie had one of the best offseasons of any defensive player on the team and should become a quality backup.

NG: Dorrell Scott, Antwon Murchison
6-3, 305 pound noseguard Dorrell Scott is one of the most underrated players on the team. A run-stuffing force in the middle, Scott returns for his junior year with plenty of experience under his belt. The staff has been hoping for more from Murchison, but he's still a redshirt sophomore.

DT: Rashaad Jackson, Jock McKissic
Tommy Bowden said Jackson was "unblockable" at times during spring practice ... what more do you need to know? True, he'll need to show that same dominance this fall, but at 6-3, 290 pounds and with his non-stop motor Jackson could be in store for a breakout year. Jock McKissic (6-6, 295) is more than a capable backup who would likely start for most teams in the league.

BE: Ricky Sapp, Kwam Williams
Sapp, a former 5-star prospect steps into the massive shoes of Gaines Adams this season. The bandit end position in defensive coordinator Vic Koenning's scheme is seemingly built for a player with his skills. He's a natural pass rusher who can also has enough speed to easily move in coverage situations. At around 245 pounds, he's also added the necessary weight to become a force rushing the passer. While he needs to prove his ability on the field this fall, Ricky Sapp's future on the field looks bright. Kwam Williams is a serviceable backup who get more playing time than many suspect considering he's a senior and he's also taken on a leadership role this offseason.

FRESHMEN: Miguel Chavis, Kourtnei Brown
The future continues to look bright on the defensive line with incoming freshmen Miguel Chavis and Kourtnei Brown, both of who could see the field this season. Chavis, who spent a year in prep school will most certainly play, while Brown, who has the physique of an upperclassman will also get a hard look. Look for Chavis to provide depth inside while Brown will likely see playing time at bandit end. Jarvis Jenkins is another candidate to play early as a tackle, pending his progress during fall practice.