Phil Mafah reveals his conversation with Will Shipley after bowl win

Clemson had a great, come-from-behind win over Kentucky in the Gator Bowl to close out the 2023 season, but it didn’t come without a cost. Star running back Will Shipley got banged up on a long kickoff return in the fourth quarter and had to exit the game. He did not return.

It would end up being the last game of Shipley’s college career as he declared for the NFL draft a few days later.

After the win, fellow Clemson running back Phil Mafah shared what his conversation with Will Shipley was like as the Tigers celebrated their victory.

“We were just expressing love to each other and letting each other know that we were grateful for each other,” Phil Mafah said. “I told him at halftime, we’re not going to win this game without you, and that big return he had, it’s one of the reasons why we won this game.”

Shipley accounted for 132 all-purpose yards in the 38-35 victory, with 60 of those coming on a kickoff return to set up the go-ahead field goal for the Tigers.

Meanwhile, Phil Mafah had four rushing touchdowns to lead the way for Clemson.

Mafah shared that he has enjoyed playing with Shipley over the years as they created a dynamic 1-2 punch.

“Just giving all the gratitude back to him and just praying for him and hoping he gets better very soon,” Mafah said of Shipley.

More on former Clemson RB Will Shipley

Will Shipley recorded 2,747 rushing yards and 31 rushing touchdowns during his three seasons at Clemson.

He then declared for the NFL draft earlier this month with the following post:

“Thank you for everything! The decision to attend Clemson University is the best one I’ve ever made,” started Shipley. “My Clemson experience has provided me with lifelong benefits and friendships, a confidence to excel in anything I pursue, and an appreciation for a standard of excellence.

“I am grateful to my teammates, the best brothers I could ever ask for. You’ve changed me, made me a better person, and given me memories that I will hold on to for a lifetime. I am grateful to my coaches and support staff, the greatest mentors that God could have woven together.

“I have decided to enter my name into the 2024 NFL draft. I am grateful for the last three years, and I am excited to see what the future holds! Although I’m taking the next step of my journey, I will always be a Clemson Tiger!”