Will Shipley shares what makes him different at RB position

Clemson running back, or all-purpose back, Will Shipley made it known what makes him stand out and be different from others in college football.

Through two seasons, it’s easy to see Shipley as the Tigers’ most dynamic offensive weapon. Despite starting in the backfield, he can virtually line up anywhere and make plays.

That’s how he explained his ability to Adam Breneman on The Next Up Podcast.

“I think it’s my ability to do anything that I’m asked to do,” Shipley said. “And just my toughness, you know, I switch into a mode that sometimes I don’t even like when I’m not on, right? Then you know, the adrenaline gets going. I’ve laid down my life on the field to get to get a win and for my brothers, you know, so I guess when I get on that field, something different happens. Then the all purpose ability and being able to catch the football and I think it’s something that I’ve shown in the past two years, but there hasn’t been much opportunity to do so.”

But that’s when Shipley noted the addition of new Clemson offensive coordinator Garrett Riley.

“I’ve had some you know, hurdles to get over with that so pumped about Coach Riley and you know, things that I think are are going to come to fruition this year and I’ll really be able to show people what I can do,” Shipley said. “Catching the ball out of the backfield, playing in the slot and just being able to create matchups anywhere on the field.”

The Clemson star made sure to remind everyone he’s not just a running back. He’s truly an all-purpose back.

“I don’t like to think of myself as running back,” Shipley said. “But you know, at the same time, I don’t ever want people to think that I won’t take 20 carries in between the tackles. I love it. I love that stuff (and) I love getting hit, man. That’s what people don’t realize about me and you know, you can ask my teammates, but I’m just crazy out there. Once I switch into that football player mode, I love every part of it.”

Shipley was solid as a freshman but really shined in 2022 in his second year with the program. Shipley had 210 carries, 1,182 yards, 15 touchdowns, 5.6 yards per carry, 38 catches and 242 receiving yards.

In two seasons, Shipley has 359 carries, 1,921 yards, 26 touchdowns, 5.4 yards per carry, 54 catches and 358 receiving yards.

As a member of the Class of 2021, Shipley was a four-star recruit out of Matthews (N.C.) Weddington, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He was the No. 2 overall prospect in the state, the No. 3 running back in the class and the No. 36 overall prospect in the class.

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