Matt Luke was already one of most respected offensive line coaches in the country when Dabo Swinney hired him to lead the Clemson Tigers’ unit. Now, in his first season as the offensive line coach at Clemson, everyone is seeing why Coach Luke is held in such high regard.
The Tigers’ line has gone from a maligned weak spot to a place of strength and consistency within the Tigers’ offense. Behind them, Clemson rolled up 712 yards off offense in its 66-20 win over Appalachian State last week and protected quarterback Cade Klubnik so well that he completed 24 of 26 passes for 378 yards, five touchdowns, and two more rushing.
In two games, the line has surrendered only four sacks and just one against the Mountaineers. Klubnik has had plenty of protection, and the running back group led by Phil Mafah has found plenty of space to run, even against Georgia when Mafah was finding success between the tackles in early down situations.
The leadership of Matt Luke has obviously played a critical part in that success. Georgia, known as a factory for offensive linemen, developed into one of the best programs for the position in the country under Luke’s leadership, and now the Clemson Tigers appear to be reaping the benefits of his presence.
Dabo Swinney is keenly aware of the impact Matt Luke has already made.
“Matt has brought a new level of toughness and discipline to our offensive line. His experience and coaching style have really resonated with our players,” said Swinney.
Dabo Swinney
The players have noticed, too.
Said offensive lineman Blake Miller, “Coach Luke has been incredible. He’s helped us refine our techniques and understand the game better. We’re playing with more confidence and cohesion.”
Blake Miller
Run blocking, pass blocking, you name it. The improvements have been across the board. Just two games in, and everyone should have real cause for optimism about the Tigers’ line going forward. It is going to be fun watching this unit the rest of the season as they continue to get better. By November, it should come as no shock to anyone if they rank among the best units in the country.
Clemson fans can thank Coach Matt Luke for helping make such a turnaround possible.
