ESPN Analysts Crown Clemson's Offensive Line a TOP-10 National Powerhouse

CLEMSON, SC – While quarterback Cade Klubnik may steal the headlines as one of the nation's premier signal-callers, his Heisman aspirations and Clemson's national title hopes hinge on one critical unit: the offensive line. And according to ESPN's dynamic duo, Greg McElroy and Cole Cubelic, the Tigers' hog mollies are more than up to the task, ranking as the ninth-best offensive line in the entire country.

On a recent episode of "Always College Football," McElroy and Cubelic left no doubt about their confidence in Clemson's trench warfare. The primary reason for their optimism? Offensive Line Coach Matt Luke, a national championship-winning architect from his time at Georgia.

"I could probably start and finish my reasoning with Matt Luke, Clemson’s offensive line coach," McElroy declared. "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 years."

Luke's presence is just one piece of the puzzle. Clemson's offensive front boasts a rare blend of experience and talent. With four of five starters returning from last season's ACC Championship squad, the cohesion is undeniable. The unit features a veteran core of graduate players – left tackle Tristan Leigh, center Ryan Linthicum, guard Walker Parks, and right tackle Blake Miller – who collectively bring a staggering 120 career starts to the trenches.

The lone projected newcomer, Harris Sewell, is hardly a rookie. He's already logged over 1,000 career snaps in a Clemson uniform, including 547 in 2024 with eight starts, proving he's more than ready to step into a starting role at left guard.

Cubelic, a former offensive lineman himself, emphasized the direct impact this experience will have on Klubnik and the entire offense. "I like Tristan Leigh at left tackle. I think he can be one of the better tackles in the ACC," Cubelic stated. "They have an experienced quarterback now with four or five experienced offensive linemen. If they excel, watch out for what that Clemson offense might have a chance to be.”

With elite protection, a powerhouse running game potential, and a quarterback poised for a breakout season, this top-10 offensive line is poised to become the engine that drives Clemson's College Football Playoff and national championship ambitions in 2025.