Phil Mafah, the dynamic running back for the Clemson Tigers, has stepped into a pivotal role this season, transitioning from a supportive player to the primary force behind the team’s rushing attack. With the departure of his former backfield partner, Will Shipley, Mafah has embraced the challenge of being the lead back, demonstrating both his commitment to the team and his desire to excel on the field.
At 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighing 230 pounds, Mafah has shown his capability to handle the increased workload. So far this season, he has accumulated an impressive 682 rushing yards on 105 carries, crossing the goal line six times. His contributions extend beyond rushing, as he has also made his mark in the passing game, securing eight receptions for 42 yards. This multifaceted skill set makes him an invaluable asset to the Tigers as they navigate the demands of a competitive season.
However, Mafah’s commitment to his role transcends mere statistics. He emphasizes the importance of physical and mental preparation, recognizing that the work done outside of game day is crucial for success. “It could be highs and lows to it,” Mafah reflects on the challenges of being a lead back. “Being a football player—injuries are a part of the game, and you’re never going to feel 100% throughout the season, so you just got to work on maintaining that.”
As the season progresses, Mafah has adopted daily routines that are essential for maintaining his health and performance. He stresses the significance of prioritizing self-care and scheduling time for treatment and recovery. “It comes down to just your priorities and your scheduling, just making sure you’re getting treatment and doing everything you can on a daily basis to treat your body,” he explains. This dedication to his physical well-being reflects a professional mindset that is often seen in seasoned athletes.
The timing of Clemson’s second bye week has also provided a welcome respite for Mafah and his teammates. This break allows players to focus on recovery and the finer details of their game. “The bye week helps a lot, just having a week where you get to focus on getting your body back and focus on the little things. That always helps, too,” he notes. This opportunity to regroup is crucial for Mafah as he aims to remain a dominant force for Clemson in the latter part of the season.
On the field, Mafah’s impact goes beyond just yardage and touchdowns. He takes pride in his versatility, particularly in pass protection, highlighting his commitment to the essential aspects of his position. “Being versatile in my role, being able to run the ball, and pass protection—I take pride in both things, and whatever the team needs me to do, I’ll be there to do that as long as we get what we want, and that’s to be able to go down the field and score,” he states. This selfless attitude underscores his focus on team success over individual accolades.
Despite his elevated status as the lead back, Mafah remains grounded and dedicated to his teammates. He celebrates their successes and recognizes the importance of collaboration in achieving victory. His leadership on and off the field is a testament to his character and commitment to the Clemson football program.
As the season unfolds, Phil Mafah continues to solidify his role as a key player for the Clemson Tigers. His blend of physical prowess, mental preparation, and team-first mentality positions him as a formidable force in college football. With every game, he not only seeks to enhance his own performance but also aims to uplift his teammates and contribute to the collective success of the program.
