Dabo Swinney praises Clemson’s OL for size, strength ahead of fall camp

Clemson coach Dabo Swinney spoke to reporters on Friday afternoon, and one of the biggest takeaways was his confidence in Clemson’s offensive line going into 2022.

The Tigers struggled in that area at times last season, but they return several key starters and have spent the offseason getting better in the weight room.

Swinney told reporters he’s pleased with how all of Clemson’s linemen have developed physically and specifically shouted out freshman guard Dietrick Pennington.

He described Pennington as a “lean 360” pounds.

“This is probably as big and strong as we’ve ever been across the board at offensive line,” Swinney said of the group.

Clemson also returns left tackle Jordan McFadden, left guard Marcus Tate, center Will Putnam and right tackle Walker Parks. That group of 4 linemen combined to make 44 starts last season.

Here’s the listed height and weight for all 5 of those offensive linemen:

• Jordan McFadden: 6-foot-2, 307 pounds
• Marcus Tate: 6-foot-5, 328 pounds
• Will Putnam: 6-foot-4, 313 pounds
• Dietrick Pennington: 6-foot-5, 360 pounds
• Walker Parks: 6-foot-5, 314 pounds

If Clemson’s offensive line is significantly improved, it should help all areas of the Tigers’ offense. DJ Uiagalelei struggled at times last season, but he could be in for a big season if he has more time to throw the ball. Running back Will Shipley is also expected to carry more of the offensive load as a sophomore in 2022.

Clemson opens the 2022 season with Georgia Tech on Sept. 5.