ESPN was recently breaking down key pieces for each ACC team, Clemson’s Chris Johnson Jr (not related to legendary running back Chris Johnson) received incredibly high praise, being compared to the greatest Clemson running back of all time; “Morris is going to feed Johnson in every way he can. He’s one of the fastest, most dynamic backs in college football — an all-purpose weapon in the mold of C.J. Spiller.
Johnson is a transfer out of SMU, where he compiled 480 yards rushing, 180 yards receiving and five touchdowns last season for the Mustangs. He shined under a limited snap count, with 7.1 yards per carry and 10.6 yards per reception.
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The comparison to Spiller comes from Johnson’s explosiveness and well rounded ability. Johnson can be utilized in the passing game, with both screens and quick passes in the flat as well as some work beyond the line of scrimmage. He is an explosive runner that knows how to get vertical quick, and can hopefully be a reliable three down back with an increased workload.
Alongside Gideon Davidson and Jay Haynes (who SI called the most underrated running back on Clemson’s roster), Johnson should play a large part in replacing Adam Miller, and revamping this offense under new OC Chad Morris.
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This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: Clemson running back transfer earning CJ Spiller comparisons
