Tristan Smith will get more playing time

Missouri State's transfer Tristan Smith has been a sight to see. The 6-foot-5, 205-pound receiver has been very impressive with how he conducts himself on and off the field.

Last season, Smith was a second-team all-conference selection after catching 76 passes for 934 yards and six touchdowns while helping SEMO reach the FCS playoffs. One of the most impressive games of his collegiate career came when it mattered most. He hauled in a career-high ten passes for 139 yards and a touchdown during the first round of the FCS playoffs against Illinois State.

When Clemson Tigers All-American wide receiver Antonio Williams left Saturday's season opener against LSU with an undisclosed injury and did not return, I figured Smith would have gotten more action, but he played just three snaps in the loss to LSU.

Tigers head coach Dabo Swinney explained that the offense ran fewer plays than expected during the season opener. Smith's lack of possessions wasn't intentional, rather it was a result of circumstances. "He's going to play a ton,” Swinney assured the media on Monday. “He’ll get a lot of opportunities."

Smith's size and skill set make him a formidable target for the Clemson offense, and his ability to perform in high-pressure situations is well-documented. As the team navigates the rest of the season, Smith's presence on the field could provide a significant boost, especially in critical matchups. With increased playing time, he has the potential to become a key contributor to the Tigers' aerial attack, helping them secure important victories.