Freeman splitting first-team center repetitions with Cloy

CLEMSON -- A new center might be included in the Tigers' offensive adjustments.

Dabo Swinney said following Thursday's practice that freshman Dalton Freeman is now splitting first-team center reps with Mason Cloy, a sophomore.

"Dalton Freeman is another one battling for a starting spot," Swinney said. "I'm real pleased with him."

Swinney was also impressed with David Smith's limited work at right tackle at Maryland. Smith has been converted from guard and played several series against the Terps.

How Smith, a redshirt sophomore, fits in the rest of the way remains to be seen.

Chris Hairston should be fully ready to go against Wake Forest next week -- he was punished with up-downs at practice Thursday -- and it appears Landon Walker will remain at right tackle after grading out slightly better than Cory Lambert during the last two weeks.

Can't hardly wait

Though Swinney acknowledges the bye week came at a good time, noting Clemson has "mentally and physically" healed, the Tigers coach said Thursday he wished the Clemson had a game this Saturday.

"You're mad, you realize how close you are," Swinney said. "You just want to play again."

Swinney has structured practice this week so there is more first team vs. first team reps, and errant plays have been repeated until run flawlessly.

Swinney indicated the offense might be pared down a bit against Wake Forest as Clemson focuses on fundamentals and running fewer plays more efficiently.

"If I don't feel comfortable with it, we are throwing it out," Swinney said. "I want to see guys know it 100 percent."

Extra points

Swinney said Xavier Dye, Jacoby Ford, Terrence Ashe and Marquan Jones continue to take first-team snaps at receiver… A day after the band practiced alongside the football team, ROTC training took practice near Clemson practice fields, with cadets firing off blank ammunition. Crowd noise should not be a problem going forward. … Clemson returns to practice Monday.