A huge sigh of relief for Clemson fans, for now.
During yesterday’s press conference, Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney announced that running back Will Shipley will play in the Gator Bowl against Kentucky on Dec. 29.
The news comes after Shipley’s potential departure from the program, either declaring for the NFL Draft, using the transfer portal or deciding to return to Clemson for one more year. However, Shipley, an academic senior, participated in the Senior Day activities in case he decides on leaving the Tigers.
Despite all of the questions surrounding the junior running back, Swinney confirmed he would play in the bowl game, and that Shipley would tell the media his decision at whatever point he decides.
“I’ll let him tell you all that, I won’t steal his thunder,” Swinney said. “He’s playing in the bowl game, for sure.”
The decision comes in a time of desperation for Clemson’s running back room, who recently said goodbye to transfer Domonique Thomas, who entered the transfer portal and was the Tigers’ third-string back.
Phil Mafah, who has been splitting touches with Shipley throughout the season, has yet to decide on playing in Jacksonville, Florida, for the bowl game. Although he has not opted out of the bowl game, the junior standout has not finalized a decision just yet, neither have we had a confirmation from Swinney.
The main dynamic back for the last three seasons for the Tigers, Shipley added 798 rushing yards and five more touchdowns to his great collegiate career throughout this year, bringing in 235 receiving yards as well this season.
If it is Shipley’s curtain call, he will be able to do it for a Clemson team looking to end their season on a high, with his decision to be announced at some point in the upcoming weeks.
