Clemson OC Tony Elliott says freshmen RBs Will Shipley, Phil Mafah are 'getting more comfortable'
Clemson’s offense has struggled this season, but the Tigers appeared to make strides in that area during their 30-20 win over Florida State this weekend.
Freshmen running backs Will Shipley and Phil Mafah are a big reason why. Both averaged over 5 yards per carry vs. the Seminoles and made big plays in the process.
On Monday, Clemson offensive coordinator Tony Elliott commented on his two young running backs and their progress within the offense.
Clemson OC Tony Elliott starting up the week. He says the Tigers moved the ball well against Florida State but have to score points. Adds that freshman RBs Will Shipley and Phil Mafah are getting more comfortable.
— Alexis Cubit (@Alexis_Cubit) November 1, 2021
Shipley scored Clemson’s go-ahead touchdown late in the fourth quarter. He finished the game with 128 yards and 2 touchdowns on 25 carries.
CLEMSON LEADS!
Will Shipley with a clutch house call: pic.twitter.com/eDQ2M0c9pw
— Saturday Road (@SaturdayRoad) October 30, 2021
Mafah carried the ball 9 times for 69 yards. His day included a 61-yard scamper — the longest running play of Clemson’s season so far.
61-yard run for Clemson freshman RB Phil Mafah. Longest rush of the Tigers' season so far. Led to a Clemson TD later in the drive. pic.twitter.com/8KEehmd0zi
— Saturday Road (@SaturdayRoad) October 30, 2021
Clemson is now 5-3 on the season as it hits the home stretch. The Tigers still have games remaining vs. Louisville, UConn, Wake Forest and South Carolina.
Kickoff vs. the Cardinals is at 7:30 p.m. ET on Saturday.