Blake Miller Weighs In on Shipley’s Impactful Return
By: ashby-mixon November 15, 2023

Clemson’s win over Georgia Tech Saturday featured a familiar spark with the return of veteran running back Will Shipley.

After being sidelined for the Notre Dame game on Nov. 4 while in concussion protocol following a hit to the head and neck area against NC State, Shipley made his presence known against the Yellow Jackets with a timely touchdown and 107 all-purpose yards.

In a meeting with the media Monday, offensive lineman Blake Miller expressed how important Shipley’s return was for the Tigers (6-4, 3-4 ACC) in the victory.

“(Shipley) definitely went out there and had a day,” Miller said. “Each running back (Shipley and Phil Mafah) had over 100 all-purpose yards each, so I think both of them did a great job. I think Ship had a great day coming back after what happened at NC State.”

With his explosive 32-yard scoring run, Shipley became only the eighth player in Clemson history to rush for 30 career touchdowns. Miller attributes this success to Shipley’s unique perspective.

“I think it’s great that he went out there and played the way he did,” Miller said, “and I think it was just his love for the game… the one-play mentality that he had going in there, you could really see it.”

Miller went on to describe the emotional impact that Shipley’s injury had on the team.

“It gave a perspective of how quickly it all can be taken away from you,” Miller said. “I think we all know that those hits aren’t very common, but they can be detrimental.”

In the wake of the Tigers’ last two wins, quarterback Cade Klubnik has vocalized his belief that Miller and the offensive line pave the way for Shipley and Mafah’s success, calling the unit “the best we’ve had at Clemson in a long time.”

Clemson’s offense faces another challenge this Saturday when the Tigers take on No. 24 UNC in Memorial Stadium. Clemson’s 2023 home finale will kick off at 3:30 p.m., televised on ESPN.

We have just added a new special to our store. Get the Two Pack of signed footballs from Clemson’s 2022 and 2023 classes and save $75. Thanks for your support of Clemson football.