1. CLEMSON TIGERS
Last year: 12–2 (7–1 ACC); Lost to Alabama in College Football Playoff semifinal
SI Top 100 players: Nine: DL Christian Wilkins (No. 3), DE Clelin Ferrell (No. 7), DT Dexter Lawrence (No. 10), DE Austin Bryant (No. 32), OL Mitch Hyatt (No. 37), LB Kendall Joseph (No. 57), CB Trayvon Mullen (No. 63), WR Tee Higgins (No. 69), RB Travis Etienne (No. 94)
X-Factor: With nearly every other piece in place to contend for a national title, the choice of quarterback may determine whether Clemson reaches its goal. Like Alabama last year, the Tigers have an accomplished incumbent starter (Kelly Bryant) and a freshman generating buzz (Trevor Lawrence). The Crimson Tide didn’t make a QB switch until halftime of the national championship—and then it made all the difference. Lawrence throws a better deep ball; Bryant has earned loyalty after going 12–2 last year. Dabo Swinney has said the job is Bryant’s but has left the door open for Lawrence. Don’t be shocked if it’s still ajar well into September. — Andy Staples
