With just over a month to go until Clemson’s 2024 season opener against Georgia, fans and media alike are clamoring for a first look at Clemson’s offense. Running back Phil Mafah, a massive piece of the Tigers’ success on the ground last year, spoke at the ACC Kickoff in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Thursday to address questions.

As the thrill of the 2024 collegiate football season ramps up, all eyes are on Clemson’s backfield to set the offensive tone for the Tigers. Mafah is soon entering his fourth and final year under head coach Dabo Swinney — and his first as RB1.

With Will Shipley leaving to pursue his NFL dreams, Mafah is next in line for the starting slot. With this new responsibility on his shoulders, the Loganville, Georgia, native is looking to make this season count for both himself and his team.

When asked what, if anything, will change for him after Shipley’s move, he made it clear that his focus is on himself.

“Nothing changes in my mindset, but one thing I have been focusing on this offseason is my longevity to be able to play as many games as I can this year. Taking care of my body, my nutrition, doing what I need to do to be successful.”

Mafah finished the 2023 season with 965 total rushing yards and 13 touchdowns, four of which came in the last game of the season when the 2023 Gator Bowl MVP helped Clemson pull off a 38-35 win over the Kentucky Wildcats.

“Seeing the way we finished definitely gave us a lot of confidence for this year and going into the offseason in our preparation,” he said of the season finale’s impact. “I definitely feel like that game has helped our team morale be boosted and allowed the guys to know that we can win; we can be successful.”

Mafah will continue to work alongside starting quarterback Cade Klubnik to create a strong bond in the locker room ahead of the intensity that comes with football season. Both Klubnik and Mafah are looking to show up with an evolved and efficient offense and to emphasize a team culture of growth and success.

Ready to take on this goal together, Mafah spoke positively about his quarterback and friend.

“He’s my brother in Christ. I love that dude. He cares about this team so much, and he’s taken a great step this offseason just to get closer to the guys and help to bring unity within the offense and defense.

“He’s stepped up as a vocal leader and as a field general out there, and I’m really proud of him.”

Mafah and his Tiger teammates take to the field for the first time this season at noon on Aug. 31, when they go against the Georgia Bulldogs at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.