Clemson lands in top-5 of preseason SP+ projections for 2022
Clemson is the ACC’s top team in the latest SP+ rankings, which were released on Wednesday morning.
The Tigers come in at No. 5 nationally. They have the No. 1 overall defense and the No. 41 offense, according to SP+.
SP+ uses a formula comprised of metrics like returning production, recruiting rankings and recent on-field success. It’s intended to predict a team’s overall efficiency before — and throughout — a season.
Behind Clemson at No. 5, the next closest ACC team is Pitt at No. 13. The Panthers lose Kenny Pickett, but they’ve added several key transfers this offseason including USC transfer quarterback Kedon Slovis.
NC State is next at No. 15. The Wolfpack return quarterback Devin Leary and figure to be Clemson’s top competition for the ACC Atlantic title this season.
No. 20 Miami and No. 24 Florida State are the other programs to be included in the top-25.
Last season’s ACC Atlantic champs, Wake Forest, are further down the list. The Demon Deacons are ranked are ranked No. 47 heading into spring ball, per SP+.
Clemson’s spring practice begins on March 2.