June 21, 2001

Below are Kyle Young's answers to the selected questions that you submitted this past week to "Ask The Tigers". ClemsonTigers.com would like to thank you for all of your questions submitted. We would also like to thank Kyle for his time and sincere effort with "Ask The Tigers".

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Hey Kyle,
I was wondering how effective the offensive line will be this year after losing a pair of seniors, but gaining back Akil Smith. Thanks a lot and best of luck this year!
Eric Sprott
Clemson, SC

We have high expectations heading into the 2001 football season. Coming out of spring practice, we gained a lot of depth on the OL. Guys like Derrick Brantley, Brian Outlaw, and Greg Walker helped to solidify an already experienced offensive line. Losing John McDermott and Theo Mougros will definitely have an impact on how the line plays together, but with the return of Akil, I expect us to be solid up front. We are working really hard right now in the weight room and running out on the field, and it seems like everyone is really excited about the upcoming season.

Hey Kyle,
I would like to know how you and your fellow linemen stay in top condition as you try to unwind and enjoy the summer months.
Walt Jordan
Williamston, SC

The majority of the offensive linemen attend first session summer school and all of us will be here during second session. During this time Coach Batson and the rest of the strength staff put us through rigorous workouts. After working in the weightroom, many of us will head out to the lake or down to Mac's Drive In to unwind.

Kyle,
Who was the toughest defensive line you faced last year?
Greg Owens
Greer, SC

Florida State always has great athletes at every position, and their defensive line is no exception. Not only were they great athletes, but they played extremely hard.

Kyle,
Is it true that Jackson Turner and you tried to run over your poor next-door neighbor and ended up parking your car in the top of a tree 5 feet from your neighbor's family room when you were 10 years old?
David Richardson
Knoxville, TN

I plead the fifth then, and I'm pleading the fifth now.

Thanks for the question, Dave.

Kyle,
I've noticed in situations where Clemson is down by a touchdown or two and everybody pretty much gives up. I know the Florida St. game was a good example of giving up. In the Gator Bowl, there were times where Clemson could have and should have fought back. My question is, do you and the rest of the Tigers' notice your lack of energy and giving up in crucial points of a ball game? I wish you the best this season! Go Tigers!
Joey Davis
Aiken, SC

I've never given up, and I have never seen my teammates give up. Sometimes on a given day, you face an opponent that can do nothing wrong. And sometimes even though you are trying as hard as you can, you can't do anything right. Looking back at the Florida State game and the bowl game, this seems to be what happened. With the amount of time we put in on the practice field, in the meeting room, and in the weight room, I can guarantee you that we are not going to give up, the only time we get a chance to play.

Kyle,
Heck of a career so far. Why not go out with an ACC ring like me and your brother did in '91. It's been 10 years, do you think we got a shot at the ACC title this year? Who do you want to take down in the conference outside of them devils in Tallahassee? Secondly, will our offense be better than last year? Good Luck in 2001 !!!
John Herczogh
Washington, DC

It is definitely one of our goals to end up with an ACC title this year. Of course we have to go through Florida State, but teams like Georgia Tech and NC State have also given us fits in the past. I am looking for our offense to have a great year and to help us reach our goals.

Hey Kyle,
Which is more important to you: football or your schoolwork?
Daniel Sharpe
Lexington, SC

They are equally important to me. Anything I do, I want to do well, and anything that I am a part of, I want it to be successful. I feel that my success both in football and in the classroom will have a positive effect on my future.

Dear Kyle,
We heard you had some REALLY GREAT plans for next Spring!!!! CONGRATULATIONS!!!! Have a good summer!
Love - "The Atkins Family"
Easley, SC

After completing what will hopefully be a championship season, I will be getting married to Jamie Watson in March of 2002. Whether we win a championship or not, I consider myself extremely lucky because I have the sweetest bride-to-be in the world. Thanks for the "congrats".

Kyle,
Do you think Brian Mance and Kevin Johnson could be the answer at corner this year.
John Toole
Jonesboro, GA

Both Brian and Kevin are here this summer and they are both working very hard. They are both great athletes with good speed, and I think it is just a matter of time before one of them, if not both of them become great players for Clemson.

Thanks for all the questions. I hope y'all are as excited about the upcoming season as I am.
Go Tigers!
Kyle Young

Next week's guest on "Ask The Tigers" will be Clemson All-American and current money leader on the Buy.com Tour, Jonathan Byrd.