Sounds promising for Billie
Also goes to show that it wasn't just a rumor about Billie being in academic trouble. I have been hearing Clemson fans say all Summer that they were worried to death about Billie not qualifying. They were saying that he had to do an exceptional job in the Summer semester in order to get on the field this season. Sounds like he did just that, at least that's what Tommy thinks. I didn't know that Watkins was having academic trouble also. Anyway, article below..
Clemson Football Notes
CLEMSON — There's a good chance Clemson's linebackers will be the team's strength instead of its weakness this season.
The status of their top three linebackers was uncertain during the spring, but now the Tigers are looking forward to 2007 with Tramaine Billie, Antonio Clay and Nick Watkins firmly in their plans.
Coaches are optimistic that Billie, a senior who has struggled academically, will be eligible to play. Head coach Tommy Bowden is so confident that he recently gave the OK for Billie to be featured on the cover of the team's media guide.
Bowden and his staff also feel good about Clay and Watkins. After spending the spring at home in Georgia battling emotional issues stemming from his sister's death, Clay spent the first summer session in Clemson attending class and participating in voluntary workouts.
Like Billie, Watkins missed considerable practice time during the spring to focus on academics. He is also expected to be eligible.
With little experience behind them, losing one or more of the three veterans would have been a significant blow. Billie was the team's No. 3 tackler in 2005 before suffering a season-ending ankle injury a year ago during preseason camp. Watkins had a team-high 116 tackles last season, and Clay came in third with 95.
