Why Losing Rashaad Jackson Will Not Hurt Clemson

During a scrimmage on Saturday, the Clemson Tigers lost Rashaad Jackson, a starting defensive tackle, to a leg injury. Jackson will be back on the field by the middle of the season, most likely for the October match-up with Georgia Tech.

Although this is a huge loss for the Tigers, there are three good reasons why this injury will not keep Clemson from winning the ACC this season.

No. 1:  Clemson has solid depth at defensive tackle.

Very few teams can lose a starting defensive tackle and have a Parade All-American (Jamie Cumbie) and a four-star recruit (Jarvis Jenkins) fill the void. Although neither one has the run stopping ability of Jackson, they are suitable replacements who can rush the passer without being pushed around.

No. 2:  Superior talent at Defensive End.

Ricky Sapp returns at the bandit end position this year, having put on about 20 pounds.  He was described as unstoppable during practices by Tommy Bowden.

Also, the Tigers have De'Quan Bowers at the strongside end position.  He is one of the most highly touted defensive end recruits in recent history. He does a great job of stopping the run and getting to the passer, and will require double-teams throughout the season.  These two will be the focus of offensive coordinators all season, leaving the tackles to work one on one.

No. 3:  Brandon Maye is a run stopping machine.

Middle Linebacker Brandon Maye has been compared to Nick Waters with respect to his intensity and tackling ability. This will go a long way in stuffing the run up the middle and suring up the defensive line.  He will be able to fill any gap that is left by poor defensive tackle play.

In addition to these reasons, the schedule is a huge factor. Clemson will be fine as long as Jackson is back for the Georgia Tech game because Tech going to be the team which will try to run on Clemson the most. They use a triple option look on offense and it will be important to have a lot of depth on the line for that game.