Heading into this season, one of the primary talking points was about how new offensive coordinator Garrett Riley would utilize star running back Will Shipley.
For Shipley, the utilization has been confusing and frustrating to watch as the playcalling hasn’t put the explosive running backs in situations to make a play. For our Offensive X-Factor for Week 6, change of pace back Phil Mafah, the situational usage has been phenomenal, and the big-body running back has taken advantage of his opportunities.
This has been the best we’ve ever seen Mafah look in this Clemson offense, and you can see it visually and on the stat sheet. He has been wildly efficient (6.5 yards per carry) and leads the team in rushing touchdowns (4), with 275 yards on the ground through five games.
Mafah has looked excellent this season, and his numbers speak for themselves. Wake Forest’s run defense has been strong this season, but they also haven’t faced a backfield as talented as this one. Look for Mafah to continue to make plays on Saturday against the Demon Deacons.