The Clemson backfield is a mixed bag. The QB position is as solid as any in the country with Tajh Boyd. Even Cole Stoudt has shown that he is capable as a backup.
On the other hand, no one has separated themselves and nabbed the starting running back position. It looks like it will be a running back by committee approach.
Quarterback
The starting QB position is as concrete as it ever has been with Boyd at the helm. He owns almost every significant passing record and could set the record for most wins by a starting QB. He's a 3rd year starter and one of the top 5 QBs in the country. Barring an injury, he's going to put up monster numbers.
Backing up Boyd will be Cole Stoudt. He has done well in spot duty and has a very good knowledge of the Clemson playbook. His dad was an NFL QB, so the pedigree is there. Pedigree is also there for Chad Kelly, nephew of, Hall of Famer, Jim Kelly. Kelly would challenge Stoudt for the backup role but he tore his ACL in the spring game. He's on pace to be ready for full contact in October. Nick Schussler will be the 3rd QB until Kelly returns.
Running Back
Running back has been one of the most competitive position battles on Clemson's roster. The Tigers will likely go with a running back by committee approach. Rod McDowell came
into preseason camp as the favorite to start but hasn't completely separated himself from Zac Brooks. McDowell surprised most last season as he was very dependable down the stretch finishing with 5.4 yards per carry. The biggest question surrounding him is can he carry the load as a starter. Brooks has performed well in preseason camp and has solidified himself as starting the season as the number 2 back. He is a powerful back but has the versatility to be used in any situation. He will receive significant carries to start the season.
Behind McDowell and Brooks will be CJ Davidson, DJ Howard, Wayne Gallman,
and Tyshon Dye. Davidson, a walk-on, has been a surprise in camp - He's guaranteed himself some playing time. Howard, once again, has been hampered by injury and been disappointing. The freshmen, Gallman and Dye, came in expecting to play. Both have shown flashes of talent, but neither has been impressive. They could wind up receiving significant playing time as the season goes on, or both could redshirt.
Starting Quarterback: Tajh Boyd
Backup Quarterback: Cole Stoudt
Starting Running Back: Rod McDowell
Backup Running Back: Zac Brooks, CJ Davidson
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