### ACC Preseason Watch List: Three Tigers to Keep an Eye On
As college football enthusiasts eagerly await the start of the 2024 season, the preseason watch lists are a source of excitement, spotlighting players who have the potential to make a significant impact on the upcoming campaign. One team that consistently dominates the conversation in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) is Clemson University. The Tigers have been a powerhouse in college football for the past decade, consistently competing for ACC championships and national titles. For the 2024 season, three Clemson Tigers have made waves on the ACC Preseason Watch List: quarterback Cade Klubnik, linebacker Jeremiah Trotter Jr., and wide receiver Antonio Williams. These standout players represent the future of the program, and all eyes will be on them as they look to lead Clemson to another successful season.
#### 1. **Cade Klubnik: The Rising Star at Quarterback**
Cade Klubnik’s name has been on the tip of every Clemson fan’s tongue since his impressive performance in the 2022 ACC Championship Game. After taking over as the starting quarterback midway through the 2022 season, Klubnik showcased his poise and playmaking ability. However, the 2024 season marks his first full season as the undisputed starting signal-caller, and expectations are sky-high.
Klubnik’s inclusion on the ACC Preseason Watch List is well-deserved. The 6’2″, 205-pound sophomore had a strong 2023 campaign, throwing for over 2,500 yards, 22 touchdowns, and just 7 interceptions. His mobility and accuracy made him a dual-threat quarterback, and his ability to perform under pressure was evident, especially in clutch moments. Now, as Clemson’s leader, he must continue to refine his game, develop chemistry with his receiving corps, and guide the Tigers to a potential ACC title.
What makes Klubnik especially intriguing is his skill set. He’s a modern quarterback with the ability to make every throw on the field, whether it’s a deep shot down the sideline, a quick out route, or an accurate intermediate pass. His athleticism allows him to extend plays with his legs, and he’s shown a good understanding of how to read defenses. With a full offseason as the starter, Klubnik will have the chance to grow even further, and his leadership could be the key to Clemson’s success in 2024.
#### 2. **Jeremiah Trotter Jr.: A Dominant Force on Defense**
If there’s one thing that Clemson has been known for over the years, it’s its ability to develop top-tier talent on the defensive side of the ball. Linebacker Jeremiah Trotter Jr. is the latest in a long line of elite defensive players for the Tigers. Trotter, who made a name for himself as a freshman, was one of the most disruptive forces on the field last season, and he is expected to play a crucial role in 2024.
Standing at 6’1″ and weighing 225 pounds, Trotter is known for his sideline-to-sideline range, football IQ, and physicality. In 2023, he recorded 112 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, 4 sacks, and 2 interceptions, demonstrating his ability to make plays all over the field. His ability to both rush the passer and cover receivers out of the backfield makes him one of the most versatile linebackers in college football.
Trotter’s leadership and presence in the middle of the defense are vital for Clemson, which traditionally relies on its defense to win games. As the anchor of the Tigers’ defensive unit, Trotter’s ability to diagnose plays quickly and adjust to offensive schemes will be essential as Clemson navigates a tough ACC schedule. With his blend of athleticism, intelligence, and toughness, Trotter has all the tools to dominate in 2024 and could be a candidate for ACC Defensive Player of the Year honors.
#### 3. **Antonio Williams: The Playmaking Wide Receiver**
While Clemson’s offense has been centered around its quarterbacks and running backs in recent years, the 2024 season could see a shift toward a more dynamic passing attack, and Antonio Williams will be a crucial piece of that puzzle. Williams, a rising star at wide receiver, made an immediate impact in his freshman season in 2023, showing off his impressive speed, quickness, and ability to make big plays.
At 6’0″ and 190 pounds, Williams has the perfect combination of size and athleticism to be a nightmare for ACC defenses. He finished the 2023 season with 57 receptions for 762 yards and 6 touchdowns, establishing himself as one of the Tigers’ most reliable targets. His ability to make plays after the catch, combined with his precise route running, makes him a constant deep threat and a matchup problem for opposing defenses.
What makes Williams particularly exciting is his potential for growth. While he was a major contributor last season, he’s only scratched the surface of his abilities. With Klubnik as his quarterback and an improved offensive line, Williams will have the opportunity to further develop his skill set, and he could emerge as one of the top wide receivers in the ACC by the end of the season. His chemistry with Klubnik will be a key storyline to watch throughout 2024, and Williams’ ability to stretch the field could elevate the Tigers’ offensive performance.
