CBS Sports predicts freshman running back Gideon Davidson as the Tigers' 2025 MVP
CBS Sports predicts freshman running back Gideon Davidson as the Tigers' 2025 MVP
Clemson's 2025 MVP pick from a national outlet might catch some fans off guard.
CBS Sports recently named a Most Valuable Player for each team in its way-too-early Top 25 rankings, and instead of going with a big name like quarterback Cade Klubnik—a Heisman hopeful heading into the season—they chose a newcomer: true freshman running back Gideon Davidson.
'This is a real out-of-the-box pick,' CBS Sports' Will Backus wrote. 'But the path is wide open for Davidson to start for a national title contender as a true freshman. Not only that; there's a real chance that Davidson becomes a bell cow for the Tigers. Phil Mafah is gone, Jay Haynes is working his way back from a torn ACL and likely won't be able to practice until closer to the season, and Keith Adams Jr. has 43 carries in three years of football. If Davidson can take advantage of his opportunities in the spring and fall, he'll fill arguably the biggest need on an otherwise solid and experienced roster.'
Davidson made his Clemson debut early by enrolling in January, and he didn't waste any time turning heads during spring workouts. He earned high praise from teammates and coaches alike—including Klubnik, who went so far as to compare him to Clemson legend Travis Etienne. Like Etienne, Davidson also sports the No. 9 jersey.
A consensus four-star recruit, Davidson wrapped up his high school career at Liberty Christian Academy (Va.) with over 2,000 rushing yards and 34 touchdowns in 2024, helping his team to a second straight state title. He was named Gatorade Player of the Year in Virginia as well as MaxPreps' top player in the state. Over his final two seasons, he totaled more than 5,000 rushing yards and 80 touchdowns.
With Clemson's backfield in transition—following the departure of Mafah and injury recovery for Haynes—Davidson is in position to take on a major role in 2025.
The Tigers, who finished 10-4 last season and returned to the College Football Playoff for the first time since 2020, come into the new year ranked No. 8 in CBS Sports' early rankings. They'll open the season against LSU on August 30 at Memorial Stadium.
Contact us @Clemson_Wire on X, and like our page on Facebook for ongoing coverage of Clemson Tigers news and notes, plus opinions.
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