Hill is the man the defense looks to for leadership

Leroy Hill, Clemson's All-America candidate at linebacker, is the linchpin of the defensive squad. Meanwhile, his starting status for Saturday's opener against Wake Forest remains uncertain as he continues to nurse an ankle injury.

PICKENS EARNS THE START: Offensive lineman Jesse Pickens, a former walk-0n, has earned a starting job for Saturday's game. (More here.)

IT'S GRANT'S TIME: Receiver Kelvin Grant, who has tremendous potential that he has failed to live up to so far, could have a break-out season this year.

CLEMSON 31, WAKE FOREST 19? Well, that's USA Today's prediction.