Three things Clemson fans should be thankful for this Thanksgiving

In a four-loss season, it may be hard to find the things to be grateful for, so we're here to help you out.

Thanksgiving is a day full of family, food, and of course football. For Clemson fans, after a turbulent start to the season, it may be hard to find too many things to be thankful for this year, but a recent run has given the fanbase something to cheer for. Here's what Tigers fans should be grateful for this Holiday season.

Freshmen depth: Clemson is going to lose a lot of absolute studs to the NFL Draft this season. Don't be surprised if a couple of eligible guys elect to come back but for players like Jeremiah Trotter Jr., Nate Wiggins, and Will Shipley, the chance to be drafted high may be too much to pass on. Luckily for Clemson, this freshmen class has been one of the best - and deepest - in recent memory. We're just a couple of weeks removed from a game that saw four freshmen record interceptions. Peter Woods and T.J. Parker have been stalwarts on the defensive line and Tyler Parker has been the team's most consistent explosive threat. This team has a wonderful foundation to build on.

Freshman receiver Tyler Brown currently leads Clemson in receptions.  / Clemson Athletics

Wes Goodwin: This time last year, fans were bemoaning their defensive coordinator in his first year in the role after replacing long-time DC Brent Venables. Now, the Tigers have quickly climbed back among the elite defensive units in the country. Clemson currently ranks 10th in total defense but three touchdowns by opposing defenses have ballooned some of their scoring metrics. This unit has carried the team every week and has been let down at times by a sporadic offense. Goodwin showed great improvement from year one to year two. 

The 12-Team Playoff: College football will look a lot different next year. Conference realignment will be in full effect and this offseason's Transfer Portal window will be like nothing we've ever seen, but the most impactful change will come to the sport's postseason. 2024 represents the first season of the 12-team College Football Playoff model. For Clemson, this means the Tigers will finally have some breathing room when it comes to the postseason. One loss, maybe even two, won't doom Clemson's championship hopes. Currently, three of the top 12 in the CFP Rankings are two-loss teams.