Former Clemson running back Will Shipley was drafted in the 2024 NFL Draft by the Philadelphia Eagles. Totaling 827 yards on the ground last season and 2,747 yards in his career, he was part of a backfield duo with Phil Mafah. With Shipley departing, Mafah is ready to carry the running game for the Tigers in 2024 and is primed for an explosive season.
In 2023, Mafah had the best season of his career, totaling 179 rushing attempts, 965 rushing yards, and 13 rushing touchdowns in 13 games (five starts).
Mafah is a unique running back. Standing at 6-1 and 230 pounds, he is an imposing force for defenders. He has the size and skill to be a workhorse-type running back for Clemson. The Tigers are not known for utilizing only one running back, often having three to four backs get significant reps throughout the season. However, with the lack of depth in the backfield this year, Clemson fans should not be surprised to see Mafah receive about 80% of the work.
In the 2021-22 season, Mafah rushed the ball 68 times for 292 yards and three touchdowns in nine games. In the 2022-23 season, he rushed the ball 98 times for 515 yards and four touchdowns in 14 games. Last season, Mafah displayed his experience and ability, totaling 179 rushing attempts for 965 yards and 13 touchdowns in 13 games.
Phil Mafah has shown exceptional progression throughout his time at Clemson. As time has gone on, the team has put more and more trust in him, and he has quickly emerged as a dominant running back in the ACC.
However, Mafah cannot do all the work on his own; he will need productive play and support from his offensive line. With the offensive line ranking 65th in yards per carry in 2023, they will need to provide better support for the run game when the season kicks off this year.
The offensive line looks to be prepared for a more successful season after hiring Matt Luke in the offseason as their new offensive line coach. Mafah should have more confidence as he takes the field this year behind a revamped and more experienced Clemson offensive line.
To provide some depth behind Mafah, Clemson fans can expect to see Jay Haynes. He appeared briefly last season before an injury. However, it only took him six rushing attempts and two receptions to score two touchdowns for the Tigers in 2023. Standing at 5-11 and 185 pounds, Haynes is an explosive athlete with a different style than Mafah. The question will be whether he can stay healthy in 2024 to provide valuable depth behind him.
Phil Mafah is a name to pay attention to as a Clemson fan in 2024. He has the ability to propel this Clemson offense to a great year and is looking to be one of the most dominant running backs in the country this season.
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