Clemson freshman running backs prove themselves in the Tigers' 2025 Spring Game
Clemson capped off spring practice with its annual Orange and White Spring Game at Memorial Stadium on Saturday, and all eyes were on the running backs. With Phil Mafah gone and Jay Haynes still recovering from a torn ACL, the door is wide open for someone to seize the spotlight in the Tigers' backfield—and two young players made a strong case.
Redshirt freshman David Eziomume put together an impressive showing, finishing with 50 yards on the ground and capping his day with a second-half touchdown. The former four-star recruit ran with confidence and physicality, showing flashes of what he could bring to the Clemson offense this fall.
Even more encouraging was the performance of early enrollee Gideon Davidson. The true freshman picked up 23 rushing yards, but where he really turned heads was as a receiving threat—hauling in three catches for 40 yards. His ability to contribute in the passing game adds a new wrinkle to Clemson's offense and could be the key to early playing time.
With the running back depth chart still wide open, Saturday offered a first real glimpse into who might emerge. If Eziomume and Davidson build on this momentum, Clemson's future in the backfield looks to be in fantastic hands.
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