As Danny Ford reflected on a 10-win 1987 season, he called it his second-best Clemson team behind the 1981 squad that won the national title.

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Ford was losing some major pieces heading into 1988, including Michael Dean Perry, David Treadwell, John Phillips and Tony Stephens. But there was no reason to think the Tigers would slip from prominence, and a national title was deemed a realistic goal.

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The offseason optimism was bolstered by the addition of a blockbuster recruiting class that included linebacker Wayne Simmons, defensive back Dexter Davis, defensive lineman Chester McGlockton, and a celebrated quarterback from Louisiana named Michael Carr.

Ford turned 40 on April 2, the day of Clemson's spring game. He moved into the summer comfortable with his returning starters, but a bit uneasy about the Tigers' depth.