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Clemson Tigers 'Put a Heavy Emphasis' on the Deep Ball
Offensive coordinator Chad Morris looks to bring back Clemson's vertical passing game.
Mar. 27, 2026 at 12:36am
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Clemson offensive coordinator Chad Morris is putting a heavy emphasis on the deep ball in the Tigers' offense this season. Morris, who previously served as Clemson's OC, is known for his explosive passing attacks that featured deep shots downfield to star receivers like Sammy Watkins and DeAndre Hopkins. With several quarterbacks competing for the starting job, Morris says the ability to throw the deep ball will be a key factor in determining the winner.
Why it matters
Clemson's vertical passing game was a hallmark of the program during Morris' previous tenure, helping the Tigers set numerous passing records. Reestablishing that element could make the Clemson offense even more dynamic and difficult to defend, especially with talented receivers like Bryant Wesco and T.J. Moore on the roster.
The details
Morris said the Tigers will aim to take at least three deep shots per quarter this season, a strategy that requires both a strong-armed quarterback and receivers who can win one-on-one matchups downfield. While the quarterbacks compete for the starting job this spring, Morris noted that the ability to throw the deep ball effectively will be a key factor in determining the winner. Injuries to Wesco and Moore have limited their participation in spring practice, but Morris is eager to get the full receiving corps healthy and working on timing with the new quarterback.
- Clemson hosts its annual Orange & White Spring Game on Saturday at 1 p.m.
The players
Chad Morris
Clemson's offensive coordinator, known for his explosive passing attacks during his previous tenure with the Tigers.
Tajh Boyd
Former Clemson quarterback who set the ACC record for career touchdown passes.
Sammy Watkins
Former Clemson wide receiver who tied the school record for career touchdown catches.
DeAndre Hopkins
Former Clemson wide receiver who set the school record for career touchdown catches.
Bryant Wesco
Clemson wide receiver who is recovering from an injury this spring.
T.J. Moore
Clemson wide receiver who is also recovering from an injury this spring.
What they’re saying
“Tajh Boyd was probably as good of a vertical thrower that I have been a part of, so we have put a heavy emphasis on it.”
— Chad Morris, Clemson Offensive Coordinator
“We are working on that, that is something we have to continue to stress through the course of the summer.”
— Chad Morris, Clemson Offensive Coordinator
“It will be really good, though when we get our guys back and get everybody back healthy, so we can really work on that timing.”
— Chad Morris, Clemson Offensive Coordinator
What’s next
Clemson hosts its annual Orange & White Spring Game on Saturday at 1 p.m., where the quarterback competition and emphasis on the deep ball will be on full display.
The takeaway
Clemson's return to an explosive vertical passing game under offensive coordinator Chad Morris could make the Tigers' offense even more dynamic, but the team will need to get its top receivers healthy and find a quarterback who can consistently deliver accurate deep balls.
