Clemson players have left an undeniable mark on ESPN’s ($) ranking of the greatest true freshman seasons in college football history, with Trevor Lawrence leading the way for the Tigers at No. 4 overall and the top quarterback on the list.
In 2018, Lawrence exceeded sky-high expectations by throwing for 3,280 yards, 30 touchdowns, and just four interceptions. He peaked in the postseason, completing 66% of his passes for 1,185 yards and nine touchdowns in his final four games, guiding Clemson to a flawless 15-0 season and a national championship.
Anthony Simmons earned the No. 18 spot on the list, standing out as one of the greatest freshman linebackers ever. The Spartanburg native dominated from his first snap, racking up 150 tackles and being named national freshman of the year. Simmons only got better in his following seasons, cementing his legacy as one of the top linebackers of his era.
Robert O’Neal is ranked No. 21 after bursting onto the scene in 1989. The Georgia native secured a spot in the lineup and delivered eight interceptions during his freshman campaign, helping Clemson field a defense that held eight opponents to 10 points or fewer in a 10-2 season.
Coming in at No. 44 is defensive lineman William “The Fridge” Perry, whose impact in 1981 was pivotal in Clemson’s first national title. Perry anchored a defense that allowed just 8.8 points per game and shut down Nebraska in the Orange Bowl, neutralizing the future Rimington Award namesake, Dave Rimington.
Sammy Watkins also made the list, ranking No. 9 among wide receivers after his electric 2011 season, while current Tiger Sammy Brown earned recognition at No. 12 for one of the best true freshman seasons in the last three years, ranking No. 4 nationally among this year’s freshmen.