Clemson Tigers: Your 2008 College Football Champions

Tommy Bowden and his Tigers are always on the brink of glory, yet they somehow find a way to come up just short.

But like Marky Mark, I think the Tigers will be feeling the "Good Vibrations" this year.

Last year the Tigers finished with an 8-4 record, but they again played better than their schedule showed.

Two losses demonstrate this: at the end of the season, where they lost to Boston College on a 43-yard bomb by Matt Ryan at the end of the game; and the bowl game, where Auburn defeated them by three points in OT.

But we're not surprised—this is Clemson, and this is just normal with them.

There was some good that came out of last season.  Cullen Harper, a fifth-year senior this coming season, stepped up and claimed the starting QB role while gaining the confidence of his teammates.

He threw for 3,000 Yards with a 65 percent completion percentage and had an amazing 27 TDs with only six INTs.

The defense was stifling, allowing just 18.7 points a game.  They return eight starters from that ACC-leading defense.  Da'Quan Bowers, the No. 1 DE recruit this offseason, has thrived in spring practice and looks to take over the hole left by outgoing senior Phillip Merling.

Their secondary was the key, and they return all four starters there.  Crezdon Butler and Chris Chancellor paired up and were the ACC's most feared corners, and possibly the two best in the Nation.

So their defense has no reason for a letdown and should maintain the same high intensity and lead the ACC again in total defense.

Let's not forget—this is still Clemson, so keep your hopeful thoughts tempered.

Well, the backfield is one of the best in the nation with James Davis, a workhorse who handles the majority of the load and is a great pass blocker.  He is the thunder.

Also we have C.J. Spiller, the lightning to Davis' thunder.  He is extremely fast and catches the ball well.  He is the game breaker who also returns punts and kicks.

Aaron Kelly broke out last year, hauling in 88 passes for 1,081 yards and showing he can be the go-to guy at Clemson.  But spring studs Xavier Dye and Marquan Jones have shown that they are capable of handling the receiving roles once Kelly departs.

Their O-line remains their lone question mark.  They return only one starter but have three players with starting experience on the line.  C Thomas Austin is the returning starter, but RG Barry Humphries and RT Chris Hairston have starting experience from last year.

While this could be their ultimate downfall, it is still possible for these Tigers to gel together and hold their own.

"I've got some questions concerning the offensive line with them being so young.  That will be a concern, especially with such a quality opponent in our opener.  But, with our returners and leaders, I feel good about the season." - Tommy Bowden

Bowden is still unsure about his line, but he still seems optimistic that they can come through.

You're currently logged into Facebook

Do you want to share your Bleacher Report activity on Facebook?