Clemson now finds itself in unfamiliar territory, having lost twice in Sept. for the 1st time since 2014. At this point, the College Football Playoff is al but off the table and the Tigers are a leg down in the ACC Atlantic race. Clemson also must deal with the loss of DT Bryan Bresee for the season. They also will be without Will Shipley for 3-4 weeks. The question on the minds of Clemson fans and college football fans nationwide is how will they respond? Does Clemson come out and play better now that expectations for the season are less? Does the issues they have compound and snowball into a downward spiral? Those questions will start to be answered Saturday when Clemson hosts Boston College.
While recent history and tradition are on Clemson's side in the matchup, this year has been nothing like recent ones. The Tigers have won 10 in a row in the series, BC's last win in the series was 2010. It's well documented, Clemson has struggled offensively rushing for just 126 yards per game and gaining just over 5 yards per completion in the passing game. Early in the N.C. State loss it appeared Clemson was working those issues out. However, that proved to be a matter of pre-scripted play calling working early. As the game went on Clemson's offense sputtered, which has brought more criticism to OC Tony Elliott. That has left many around the game to wonder if Elliott can be effective calling plays as the game goes.
Boston College comes in 4-0, after beating Mizzou last week. However, there are still questions surrounding how good they really are? The Eagles other three wins are against Temple, Umass, and Colgate. We also don't know exactly how good Missouri is yet? Boston College has been effective running the ball at over 220 yards per game, but is that a barrage based on low level of competition in their first three games?
The game gives off a feeling that it is more about how Clemson responds, than anything else. Can the Tigers work out their offensive inefficiencies and more so will they play inspired football. The game is a 7:30 PM kick and that bodes well historically, as the Tigers have been good at night in Death Valley. One thing we know for certain, Clemson's response is something many of us are anxious to see come Saturday night.
