Greg McElroy explains where he ranked Clemson in Top 10 offensive lines ranking

In June, ESPN’s Greg McElroy ranked Clemson at No. 9 in his preseason offensive line rankings. In a conversation with Cole Cubelic, McElroy explain his ranking.

“I could probably start and finish this reasoning with the head coach of the offensive line, Matt Luke,” McElroy said. “Usually any group that he’s in charge of, I feel pretty good about. What an addition he’s been for Dabo Swinney the last couple of years. They bring back four out of five. I’m not concerned at all about the positions that return.

“They don’t put that much on the offensive line, but I do think this is a group that can, in the ACC, impose their will. The one guy they have to replace is that left guard. Well, you lose Marcus Tate, who was a good player. In comes Harris Sewell, who’s logged 1,000 career snaps in the Clemson uniform. So, I think based on continuity, protection, offensive line success under Matt Luke, I feel really comfortable. I wouldn’t normally have Clemson in the top 10. But, this year, I do.”

As McElroy mentioned, Clemson is returning four starters from last season’s front five: Tristan Leigh (LT), Ryan Linthicum (C), Walker Parks (RG), Blake Miller (RT). Marcus Tate was the only starting offensive lineman who moved onto the NFL.

Harris Sewell will look to replace Tate. Sewell made three starts last season in 12 appearances. In total, he logged 547 snaps and was a highly-regarded backup.

Last season was Matt Luke’s first at Clemson. Under Luke’s supervision, Clemson’s offensive line only allowed 25 sacks last season. In turn, Clemson had one of the most dangerous air raids in the country, averaging 278.2 passing yards per game (15th nationally).

With a year of experience under his belt, Luke will attempt to guide the Tigers’ offensive front to new heights. After all, Clemson’s offensive line is under pressure to protect quarterback Cade Klubnik.

Klubnik is expected to be a frontrunner for the Heisman Trophy in the 2025 campaign after amassing 3,639 passing yards and 36 touchdowns last season, compared to just six interceptions. If Klubnik’s offensive line can protect him, he’s poised for a standout senior season.

“I committed to play for coach Swinney and Clemson, and I knew that I needed to get better,” Klubnik told On3’s Pete Nakos this offseason. “… Put my nose to the dirt and just try to go to work every single day and be my best self. Not really trying to be like anybody else, just trying to be the best self that I can be.”