Clemson's Title Hopes Rest on an 18-Year-Old RB Teammates Are Already Comparing to a Legend

According to CBS Sports, which identified the one X-factor for every legitimate title contender, the true freshman running back isn't just a player to watch; he's the player who could "make or break" Clemson's entire season.

"The best-case scenario for Clemson is that Gideon Davidson steps in as a true freshman, establishes himself as a standout and never looks back as the featured ballcarrier," wrote Carter Bahns of CBS Sports. "That would solve what is probably the biggest question mark on an otherwise loaded, balanced and experienced roster."

The hype isn't just coming from the outside. Inside the Clemson locker room, the buzz is deafening. Head coach Dabo Swinney, who isn't known for empty platitudes, didn't mince words when assessing the Virginia Gatorade Player of the Year.

"I think he was the best high school [running back] out there – in totality, from my evaluation, when I'm talking about the total package," Swinney said this spring. "I think this kid is special."

Special enough for star quarterback Cade Klubnik to invoke the name of a Clemson legend.

"I didn't play with Travis, but it looks kind of like Travis Etienne," Klubnik said, comparing Davidson to the Tigers' all-time leading rusher. "His cuts, they're elite. That first step and acceleration once he gets to the line, it's quick and it's sudden."

That's high praise for a player yet to take a collegiate snap, but his high school tape justifies the excitement. Davidson was a human highlight reel at Liberty Christian Academy, capping his career with an undefeated state championship season where he rushed for 2,054 yards and a staggering 34 touchdowns.

For a Clemson team projected by CBS Sports to win the ACC and lock down the No. 4 seed in the CFP, securing a crucial first-round bye, a dynamic ground game is non-negotiable. An elite passing attack can win you games, but a balanced offense wins championships.

The Tigers face a gauntlet, including a monumental Week 1 showdown with fellow playoff contender LSU. For Clemson to navigate that schedule and hoist the trophy in January, they'll need more than just a "serviceable ground attack." They'll need an X-factor. They'll need Gideon Davidson to be every bit the legend they already think he is.