Caitlyn Tai
Jeremiah Alexander (35) was among the several new additions who showed out during Saturday's spring game.
The Tigers competed against each other at the annual spring game on Saturday, with the offense defeating the defense 33-15. Throughout the game, multiple freshmen and transfers made their presence known.
Tristan Smith — transfer wide receiver
Smith took advantage of his first chance to showcase his talents on the field. He finished the game with multiple big plays, including five receptions for 137 yards and a touchdown.
Smith’s strong performance began with a 30-yard, over-the-shoulder grab on a pass from Christopher Vizzina. That catch caught the attention of many inside Death Valley, including head coach Dabo Swinney.
“How about Tristan Smith?” Swinney said over the PA system. “New Tiger!”
Smith’s greatest play was a 72-yard touchdown grab over cornerback Corian Gipson. Swinney continued to speak highly of Smith’s showing in a discussion of this play after the game.
“That was a great play, unbelievable play,” he said. “Gipson was right there. Gipson, I don’t think he knew what happened. He was like, ‘What just happened?'”
Smith also spoke about his performance after the game and admitted that he was nervous prior to the start of the game.
“I was really nervous running down the hill for the first time,” Smith said. “It was a spring game, and I ran down the hill, and I’m nervous. Really, just after that first catch, it was ‘I got to go, got to play, you know, make plays and stuff.'”
Chris Denson — freshman quarterback
While Denson only played in one drive, it was among the most productive periods of the game for the offense, as it led to the game’s first touchdown. Even with limited snaps, he was able to produce a strong showing.
In Denson’s second snap, following a handoff on first down, he ran up the middle for 12 yards. He followed that play with a deep pass to fellow freshman running back Gideon Davidson for 31 yards.
The drive concluded with a four-yard touchdown run from Peyton Streko, and Denson finished with four completions on four attempts for 53 yards, alongside nine yards rushing on four attempts.
Jeremiah Alexander — transfer linebacker
Alexander showed a strong defensive outing, recording seven total tackles; four of which were solo. Alexander transferred from Alabama and was a high school teammate of Clemson defensive lineman Peter Woods.
Swinney discussed after the game that Alexander has become more consistent in spring training leading up the game.
“He kind of gained his confidence and consistency as he went,” Swinney said. “I thought he had a really good day today.”
Gideon Davidson — freshman running back
Davidson made accomplishments in both the running and passing games during his performance. He compiled a total of 74 yards, with 31 yards on the ground and 43 yards through the air.
Davidson’s most significant play was the 31-yard reception from Denson in the second quarter, but he also produced a few solid runs. His longest rush was nine yards, which came on the last drive to help set up the game’s final field goal.
“Gideon was great,” Swinney said. “Catching the ball out of the backfield, he’s got it all.”
These new additions to the team will look to continue making an impact as they prepare for Clemson’s season opener against LSU in Memorial Stadium on Aug. 30.