4. Big Plays From Defense
For the second straight game, the Clemson defense could play a lot of players as the offense grabbed a mammoth lead, and the Tigers could comfortably see out the contest. There are some concerns about the quality of the depth on this Clemson defense, particularly as star lineman Peter Woods was forced to sit out, and the three late touchdowns surrendered will not please Swinney or defensive coordinator Wes Goodwin. Still, the big plays from the defense helped slam the door shut early in this game. Clemson had eight tackles for loss, two forced fumbles, two interceptions, and one pick-six against promising youngster CJ Bailey. The playmaking is still there, but Clemson’s coaches are looking for more down-to-down sharpness and consistency moving forward.
