11.23.13 - Clemson vs. The Citadel

It was an emotional game as some of our most memorable Clemson football seniors took to the field for their last home game in Death Valley. It was equally emotional as service men and women were honored on Military Day, and Clemson football player and U.S. veteran and purple heart recipient Daniel Rodriguez scored his first touchdown.

The game was an official 'purple out'. The players were decked out in their purple finest, the hill balloons were purple, and the majority of fans (some didn't get the memo) were in purple from head to toe. The Tigers pulled out a solid win, beating the Citadel 52 to 6.


Thanks to Clemson Girl photographer Melissa Nelson, we have some fabulous photos to share with you. If you have photos from Saturday's game you would like us to add to this album, you can email them to us at clemsongirlblog@gmail.com.

View the photos in the slideshow below, or visit our Flickr photo site to see the full album.


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Game Prediction - Clemson vs. Virginia

A November to remember starts Saturday.

The Clemson win over Georgia in August was great, an undefeated September was fantastic, that month of October was pretty good, but all football teams are measured on what they do during the month of November.

If the 2013 Clemson football team wants to be remembered as an elite team, the path to a November to remember begins in Charlottesville, Virginia on Saturday.

Can the Tigers have a successful start to the month of November and leave Charlottesville with a win?

WHAT: NO. 8 CLEMSON AT VIRGINIA
WHERE: SCOTT STADIUM – CHARLOTTESVILLE (VA)
WHEN: SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 3:30
TV: ESPN

WHEN CLEMSON HAS THE BALL: After struggling against Boston College, Florida State, and the first half against Maryland, the Clemson offense started to show signs of life, beginning with a touchdown pass from Tajh Boyd to freshman tight end Jordan Leggett at the end of the first half in College Park last week. Boyd who was gimpy and banged up began to loosen up and run the ball a little bit and he also found his groove in the passing game. Add in a 200-plus yard rushing day from Roderick McDowell and Zac Brooks and the Clemson offense was hard to stop. The offensive success should continue this week against a Virginia defense that ranks 83rd in the country against the run, giving up 182 yards per game. The Tigers will need another big day McDowell as the Wahoos rank 29th nationally against the pass, giving up just 211 yards per game and have Anthony Harris in the defensive backfield, who leads the nations in interceptions with five. Boyd’s job, however, should be a little easier without Virginia’s top defensive lineman in DT Brent Urban and two cornerbacks in Demetrious Nicholson and Maurice Canady, who are all out with injuries.

WHEN VIRGINIA HAS THE BALL: Virginia’s offense starts with first-year quarterback David Watford, who has progressively gotten better each and every week and threw for a threw for a career-high 376 yards and two touchdowns in a losing effort to Georgia Tech last Saturday. The Wahoos also have two dynamic wide receivers in Tim Smith and Darius Jennings, who became the first Cavaliers ever to have at least 10 receptions each in the same game. Smith caught 10 passes for 151 yards, both career highs. Jennings had a career-best 13 receptions for 199 yards and two TDs. The Cavaliers have also had 11 different players with a rushing attempt and 18 different players have caught a pass, meaning the Tigers will have to defend the entire field. Junior tailback Kevin Parks has rushed for nine touchdowns and is second on the team in receptions with 29. Junior tight end Jake McGee has 31 catches (in seven games). Defensively, the Tigers’ defensive line will need to consistently pressure Watford to take pressure off of the defensive backs. The key will be for Clemson to shut down the Wahoos’ rushing attack, so that Vic Beasley and company can focus on Watford and containing the passing attack.


SPECIAL TEAMS: The Cavs have a solid punter in Alec Vozenilek, who is averaging 41.0 yards per punt, but the Tigers counter with Bradley Pinion who is averaging 40.75 yards per punt. Vozenilek booted the fourth-longest punt in the nation this year with a 77-yard kick at Pittsburgh. Neither team is lighting up the punt return category. Virginia is 109th nationally in kickoff returns, averaging 18.56 yards per return. Clemson is even worse – the Tigers are 123rd nationally (out of 125 teams) in averaging 17.06 yards per return. Kicker Ian Frye (3-for-4 on field goals) has been injured since late September, but may return this weekend. Clemson’s Chandler Catanzaro has been solid has always, including a 4-for-4 effort against Maryland last week.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN: Clemson’s defense plays great for three-fourths of games, but has yet to really put together a complete game effort. Could this be the week that they finally put it all together? Combine that with an offense that is continuing to regain its confidence and it should be a successful day for the Orange and White. The game will probably be close until the third quarter, but a Virginia team that is relying heavily on the play of freshmen and sophomores will eventually give in to Clemson’s athleticism and experience allowing the Tigers will pull away.

FINAL SCORE: CLEMSON 38 – VIRGINIA 13

Post written by Clemson Girl Sports Bloggess Nikki Steele.

Game Prediction - Clemson vs. Maryland

Throw matchups, x’s and o’s, and personnel out the window this week, Saturday’s game comes down to one thing.

Mental toughness.

Can Maryland overcome all of the injuries on offense? Or will it be Clemson who overcomes its recent struggles and the blowout loss to Florida State a week ago?

The team that is able to overcome all of the negativity is the one that will emerge victorious on a cold, windy Maryland afternoon.

WHAT: No. 9 Clemson (6-1, 4-1) at Maryland (5-2, 1-2)
WHEN: 3:30 on ESPN
WHERE: Byrd Stadium, College Park, Maryland

WHY MARYLAND MIGHT WIN: Clemson has a history of playing some of its worst football in College Park and letting Maryland stay in games or even win games that the Terps shouldn’t. For all of the injuries that Maryland has sustained, the game is still in Byrd Stadium, it is still Homecoming, and it is still the Terps last game against the Tigers as ACC rivals. For Maryland, without it’s starting quarterback, running back, both star wide receivers, linebacker, and safety, Saturday’s game is all about mental toughness. Can the Maryland defense force a couple of turnovers and score points to help the offense. A week ago, the Florida State Seminoles scored 24 points off of Clemson turnovers. If Maryland can do the same, Byrd stadium will have something to cheer about and the Terps can put more pressure on Clemson quarterback Tajh Boyd. Despite the injuries that have riddled the Maryland football team, the defense is still only giving up 123.7 yards per game on the ground, good for 27th in the country and 2nd in the ACC. The Terps are also averaging 7.7 tackles for loss per game. If the defense can keep Clemson’s running game in check and force Boyd out of his comfort zone, the Terps can hang around and possibly pull out an upset late the fourth quarter.

WHY CLEMSON MIGHT WIN: For all of the struggles that the Clemson offense has endured over the last two and a half games, the quarterback is still Tajh Boyd who holds numerous Clemson records, the Tigers still have Sammy Watkins at wide receiver, they still have senior Roderick McDowell in the backfield, and they still have Brandon Thomas on the offensive line. All is not lost. The Clemson offense needs to get the confidence that they had against Georgia back, and it all starts with the running game. To be a dominant offense, you have to be able to run the football. The offensive line wants to run the football and McDowell wants to run the football. The Clemson defense, on the other hand, had been dominant up until last week when it seemed like nothing they tried, worked. Maryland quarterback Caleb Rowe, isn’t a threat to run the ball leaving him vulnerable to Clemson defensive ends Vic Beasley and Corey Crawford. Without receivers Stefon Diggs and Deon Long, the Clemson secondary’s job got a whole lot easier. If the Clemson defense can avoid giving up the big play, it will be a long day for the Terp offense.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN: Clemson has had problems establishing its ground game over the last several weeks, so the Tigers will come out and try to get the running game going early and take some pressure off of Boyd who has struggled with his consistency in the last two games. Expect Boyd to complete some short passes early on to get his confidence up and then hit the big play to give Clemson an early lead. With Rowe at quarterback, the Clemson defense won’t have to worry as much about keeping him in the pocket and can just pin their ears back and go after him because he doesn’t have the scrambling ability that Brown possesses. The Clemson offense will get back in its groove after struggling mightily a week ago and the defense will find the swagger that it lost against the Seminoles.

FINAL SCORE: CLEMSON 37 MARYLAND 10

Post written by Clemson Girl Sports Bloggess Nikki Steele.

10.19.13 - Clemson vs. Florida State Gameday Photos

There is no doubt about it that this past weekend's game was one of the more heartbreaking in recent Clemson history. It appeared that our beloved Tigers fell to the incredible pressure of a critical matchup night game. ESPN Gameday selected to return to Clemson's campus again - a rare occurence for the program, and all eyes were on this highly publicized game.

There isn't much more to be said that hasn't already been said about the game. Final score: Clemson 14, FSU 51.

Despite the loss, Clemson fans were still able to enjoy a full day of tailgating on Clemson's beautiful campus. Our two roving photographers were able to capture your tailgates, gameday outfits, and gameday fun in their photos. And special thanks to all of the Clemson Girls who submitted their photos to us to add to our album to share with you.


You can view the entire album on our Flickr site, or in the slideshow below.


Created with flickr slideshow.
All our Tigers can do is learn from this loss, put it behind them, and focus on our next matchup against Maryland. We can't let one heavy loss keep us from winning out the rest of the season. We will always support our Clemson Tigers - win or lose. GO TIGERS!

Game Prediction - Clemson vs. Florida State

There has never been a day like this on the campus of Clemson University.

On the eve of the first top-five showdown in Death Valley history, the energy and excitement are palpable – College GameDay is set up on Bowman field, the students have returned from fall break, RVs are steadily rolling into town, everyone around town is wearing orange.

For a college town, it just doesn’t get much better than this.

85,000 fans will pack into Death Valley around 7:30 tomorrow evening, to witness two top-ranked teams battle it out for a chance to continue their national championship hopes, and the upper hand in the ACC.

There’s a lot on the line, but which team has the advantage?

WHO: No. 5 Florida State at No. 3 Clemson
WHEN: 8:22 p.m.
WHERE: Death Valley, SC
TELEVISION: ABC

WHEN CLEMSON HAS THE BALL: Everyone knows the playmakers on Clemson’s offense – quarterback Tajh Boyd, running backs Rod McDowell and Zac Brooks, wide receivers Sammy Watkins, Martavis Bryant and Adam Humphries. But, this offense hasn’t faced a defense like that of the ‘Noles in 2013. Florida State’s defense has held opponents to 20 or less points in 26 of its last 33 games. The Seminoles’ defense has held ACC opponents under 100 yards rushing in eight of its last 10 road games. Boston College (2013) and Wake Forest (2011) are the only teams to gain over 100 yards rushing during that time. FSU has held ACC opponents to 20 or less points nine times in the last 14 ACC road games. There are two keys to the game for the Clemson offense. Can the offensive line hold off Florida State’s front four and create running lanes for Boyd, McDowell and Brooks? And, how will the receivers respond to the physical style of play by the ‘Noles secondary? The matchup of the night will be FSU cornerback Lamarcus Joyner and Watkins – both of which have said that they are up for a physical fight to determine who reigns supreme. If the Tigers can consistently run the ball, then that could force Florida State to bring up a defensive back to help defend the running game and create space for the receivers on the edge.

WHEN FLORIDA STATE HAS THE BALL: Florida State has an experienced offensive line and weapons at ever position, but the offense will flow as does freshman phenom quarterback Jameis Winston. Winston has passed for 1,441 yards and rushed for another 135 yards, and he’s also accounted for 19 touchdowns in his first five games. Making it easier on the freshman is the fact that he is surrounded by a wealth of talent. Devonta Freeman is first on the team with 385 rushing yards and three touchdowns. Karlos Williams has found the end zone six times, and he has 244 rushing yards, while James Wilder Jr. has rushed 36 times for 214 yards and two scores. Through the air, Rashad Greene and Kenny Shaw are tied for first with 23 receptions. They have 407 and 406 receiving yards, respectively, and Greene is tied for the team lead with five touchdown catches. Kelvin Benjamin (6-5, 234) is a matchup nightmare for corners, and he has caught 17 passes for 299 yards and three scores. Throw in tight end Nick O’Leary, who has 11 receptions for 132 yards and five touchdowns, and the FSU attack is formidable. The Clemson linebackers and secondary will need all the help they can get in coverage, and that help will surely come from the defensive line. Can defensive ends Vic Beasley, Corey Crawford and Shaq Lawson get to Winston in a hurry and not give him time to find an open receiver? The key for Clemson’s defense will be to pressure Winston, make him uncomfortable, and second-guess his decisions.

SPECIAL TEAMS: The Clemson field goal unit had a bevy of problems last week with two missed field goals, but rebounded late in the win over Boston College with a made field goal attempt. Clemson’s Bradley Pinion has been consistent this season with his kickoffs and is averaging 41.7 yards per punt. Florida State always has good special teams and this year is no exception. Redshirt freshman kicker Roberto Aguayo has made all 42 kicks this season, setting a new FSU record for consecutive kicks (PATs, FGs) to start a career. He leads the ACC in scoring (11.2 points per game). Punter Cason Beatty is averaging 40.9 yards per punt

WHAT WILL HAPPEN: These teams are even in every facet of the game – offense, defense, and special teams. Neither team has a distinct talent advantage over the other. But, what does Clemson have in its favor? Two things. Death Valley – the crowd and the atmosphere could be a difference maker in this game. And most important, Tajh Boyd. When in doubt, you go with more experienced quarterback. Boyd has played in big games before and knows how to win on the big stage. So, I’m going with home field advantage and the senior quarterback…

FINAL SCORE: CLEMSON 31 – FLORIDA STATE 24

Post written by Clemson Girl Sports Bloggess Nikki Steele.

Game Prediction - Clemson vs. Boston College

All eyes are on Boston College.

Make no mistake, we as fans and media are already counting the game against Boston College as a win for the Tigers, but the Eagles will provide a stern test on Saturday.

Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney has said all week that his team is focused on the Eagles and not looking ahead to the primetime matchup with Florida State next week.

Can the Tigers come out with the same focus that their head coach has preached about all week?

We’ll find out at 3:30 p.m. Saturday afternoon.



WHAT: BOSTON COLLEGE (3-2, 1-1 ACC) AT NO. 3 CLEMSON (5-0, 3-0)
WHEN: 3:30 ON ABC/ESPN2
WHERE MEMORIAL STADIUM, CLEMSON, SC

WHEN CLEMSON HAS THE BALL: The Clemson offense is cruising right along like a well-oiled machine after the last two games, scoring more than 40 points in both contests. However, Boston College’s defense is a veteran group and may be the best defense that the Tigers have faced to date. Linebackers Kevin Pierre-Louis and Steele Divitto are the Eagles’ leading tacklers with 50 and 43, respectively. Defensive end Kasime Edeballi is wreaking havoc in opposing team’s backfield with six tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks. The Boston College defense is also creating turnovers – recovering three of five forced fumbles and recording eight interceptions through the first five games. Clemson quarterback Tajh Boyd will have to be accurate with his passes, take what the defense gives him and not try to force any throws because a turnover could turn the tide of this game. Expect Clemson offensive coordinator Chad Morris to try to run the ball first since the Eagles are giving up 4.54 yards per rush and 198 yards per game. The Boston College offense is only giving up 208 yards through the air, but when the Eagles play a team with a talented quarterback – like Florida State – they gave up just over 12 yards per catch. If the offensive line can protect Boyd and give him time to find an open Sammy Watkins, Adam Humphries, Martavis Bryant or Stanton Seckinger, it could be a big offensive day for the Tigers.

WHEN BOSTON COLLEGE HAS THE BALL: It’s no secret that Boston College is bringing in the nation’s top rusher in 6-0, 227-pound senior Andre Williams. Williams is averaging 153.6 yards per game and rushed for a career high 263 yards and five touchdowns last week against Army. Eagles quarterback Chase Rettig is no slouch either and has completed 70-of-109 attempts for 891 yards and nine touchdowns, while only throwing three interceptions. Rettig’s top target is Alex Amidon who has caught 32 passes for 426 yards and two touchdowns. The Clemson defense gave up over 300 yards on the ground a week ago at Syracuse. They will need to correct the alignment issues on the defensive line if they want to keep Williams contained for most of the day. Also, the linebackers and corners will have to watch the underneath routes to Amidon who can easily turn a short a pass into a big gain. If defensive ends Vic Beasley and Shaq Lawson, who lead Clemson in sacks, can pressure Rettig he won’t’ have time to find Amidon on the longer routes.

SPECIAL TEAMS: Usually, it’s a no brainer to give the edge to Clemson on special teams, but the Eagles may be just as good with veterans Nate Freese, Myles Willis and Spiffy Evans. Freese handles punting, kick offs and field goals and is a perfect six-for-six on field goals with a long of 49, and is averaging 42.2 yards per punt. On the return teams, Evans is averaging 16 yards per punt return, while Willis is averaging 31.4 yards per kickoff return. Clemson kickoff specialist Bradley Pinion will need to consistently boot kickoffs through the endzone to keep the Eagles from winning the field position battle. If Adam Humphries can continue his success from a week ago on punt returns, then the edge still goes to the Tigers.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN: A lot of Clemson fans are already chalking up this game as a win, but since the Eagles entered the ACC, they have been a thorn in Clemson’s side. The teams have split the series 4-4 since 2005 and the average margin of victory has only been 8.5 points; however the last two games haven’t really been close with Clemson winning 31-14 in 2011 and 45-31 in 2012. Expect the Eagles to make this interesting early on with big runs from Andre Williams on offense and defensive pressure when the Tigers have the ball. But, the Clemson coaching staff will make the necessary adjustments just as they have all season long and by the time the fourth quarter rolls around the score won’t be quite as close.

FINAL SCORE: CLEMSON 42 – BOSTON COLLEGE 21

Post written by Clemson Girl Sports Bloggess Nikki Steele.

Game Prediction - Clemson vs. Syracuse

Photo Credit: instagram.com/_clemson_tigers_football_

The Clemson Tigers (4-0, 2-0) will be a part of history on Saturday, but whether is good or bad is up to them. The Tigers travel to New York to face off in a Homecoming contest with Syracuse (2-2, 0-0) at the Carrier Dome in the Orange’s first ACC game.

There has been a lot of smack talk from the Syracuse football team – in particular quarterback Terrel Hunt – about the Tigers not surviving the un-air-conditioned Carrier Dome. Syracuse has won its last six home games in the Dome.

Can the Tigers survive their second road game of the season and continue their undefeated streak?

WHAT: No. 3 Clemson at Syracuse
WHEN: 3:30 ABC/ ESPN2
WHERE: Carrier Dome, Syracuse, New York

WHEN THE TIGERS HAVE THE BALL: The Clemson offense finally started clicking last weekend against Wake Forest, but this weekend the Tigers will have a whole new set of challenges playing in the Carrier Dome in front of what will be a raucous crowd. Clemson quarterback Tajh Boyd will need to take what the defense gives him and find his check downs early on until the receivers can get used to finding the ball against the white backdrop. Eventually, the long-ball will open up for the Tigers. Running back Roderick McDowell injured his ankle last weekend, but is expected to play. Will he be at full strength? Who knows, but D.J. Howard and Zac Brooks are ready to step in at a moments notice. The Syracuse defense likes to bring pressure ,so the offensive line and tight ends will have to be on their “A” game to give Boyd time to hit the receivers. Syracuse defensive tackle Jay Bromley leads the team with 14 totals tackles, five tackles for loss, and two forced fumbles, so the center of Clemson’s offensive line will have to get off the ball quickly in order to keep Bromley from getting upfield.

WHEN SYRACUSE HAS THE BALL: Since Hunt took over as the starting quarterback for the Orange, Syracuse has beaten Wagner and Tulane by an average of 35 points, posting back-to-back 50 point games for the first time since 1997. Senior Drew Allen began the season at quarterback, but was inaccurate and inconsistent. Since taking over, Hunt has completed 33-of-43 passes for 468 yards and seven touchdowns with no interceptions. He has also carried the ball 12 times for 91 yards and two touchdowns. Hunt is a dual-threat quarterback that if given time can beat you with his arm, but is also a running threat. H-back Ashton Broyld is Syracuse’s leading receiver with 19 receptions. Wide receiver Christopher Clark has 15 receptions for 202 yards and three touchdowns. In the running game, junior Jerome Smith is the Orange’s leading rusher with 51 carries for 217 yards and six touchdowns. The key for Syracuse will be getting into the red zone, where the Orange have scored on 21-of-22 possessions – 17 touchdowns and four field goals. The Tigers will need to limit the big play and not let the Syracuse receivers beat them deep. Clemson defensive ends Shaq Lawson and Vic Beasley will need to play disciplined football and make Hunt uncomfortable in the pocket if the Tigers are going to leave the Carrier Dome victorious.

SPECIAL TEAMS: As I say every week, the Clemson special teams are second to none with Chandler Catanzaro and Bradley Pinion. For Syracuse, Riley Dixon handles the punting duties and has averaged 45.1 yards per punt over the last three games. Place kicker Ryan Norton is handling kicking duties for only his second game, but he has made three-of-four field goals with a long of 34 yards and has connected 14-of-15 extra points. Norton also handles kickoffs, but has zero touchbacks on the season. Could this be the week the Tigers finally break through and have a special teams touchdown?

WHAT WILL HAPPEN: Much to the chagrin of Clemson fans, I fully expect this game to look very similar to the N.C. State game two weeks ago. It’s a new environment for Clemson with many external factors that could slow down the Clemson offense. But offensive coordinator Chad Morris will be there to make the necessary adjustments and get the offense on the right track. Don’t expect Syracuse to put up 50 points though…Clemson’s defense is a lot better than Wagner or Tulane. This one will be close at halftime, but the Tigers pull away in the second half.

FINAL SCORE: CLEMSON 45 – SYRACUSE 17

Post written by Clemson Girl Sports Bloggess Nikki Steele.

Game Prediction - Clemson vs. Wake Forest

Wake Forest always strikes fear in the hearts of Clemson fans, but Dabo Swinney’s Tigers have exorcised those “Demons” in winning four straight over the Deacons.

There is a common misconception among Clemson fans that Wake Forest always gives Clemson trouble; however, the Tigers have won 11 of the last 14 in the series, while the Demon Deacons have only won twice in Death Valley – in 1998 and 1962.

Will the Tigers winning ways continue in Saturday’s Homecoming matchup?

WHAT: Wake Forest at No. 3 Clemson
WHERE: Memorial Stadium
WHEN: 3:30, ESPNU

When Clemson has the ball: The Clemson offensive attack has yet to really get going and has just kind of sputtered its way to a 3-0 start, but after playing together for four quarters last Thursday night, there should be more continuity and the playmakers should be more comfortable with each other. Quarterback Tajh Boyd had a rough first half at N.C.State, but appeared to get more comfortable as the game wore on and I expect that to continue over into Saturday’s game. With the absence of Charone Peake and Martavis Bryant [suspended for inappropriate gestures], look for running backs Rod McDowell and Zac Brooks, along with tight ends Sam Cooper and Stanton Seckinger to be a big part of the early game plan. New starters Kalon Davis and Shaq Anthony on the offensive line will have their hands full with nose guard Nikita Whitlock and defensive end Zach Thompson who are easily among the best in the conference and who have a combined 14 tackles for loss and five sacks.

When Wake Forest has the ball: There is no doubt that the Demon Deacon offense runs through senior wide receiver Michael Campanaro. Campanaro is Wake Forest’s most consistent weapon and big-play threat, and he has 25 catches for 354 yards and five touchdowns. He’s averaging 14.2 yards per catch with a long of 66 yards. Quarterback Tanner Price has completed 55.5% of his passes for 852 yards, five touchdowns and two interceptions. However, the Wake Forest running game has yet to get off the ground as the Deacons have only rushed for 487 yards and four scores over four games. Josh Harris is the leading rusher with an average of 37.8 yards per game. If the Deacons can’t get the ground game going, it could be a long afternoon in Death Valley, especially if defensive ends Shaq Lawson and Vic Beasley are able to pin their ears back and go after Price.

Special Teams: The special teams units for the Tigers have been second to none in most areas led by Bradley Pinion and Chandler Catanzaro and you can expect that to continue this Saturday. Pinion has been banged up with some soreness in his knee, but I don’t expect that to be an issue Saturday. Catanzaro has been perfect this season on field goals and extra points, while becoming Clemson’s all-time leading scorer. On the opposing sideline, The Deacons’ punter Alexander Kinal is averaging 39.9 yard per punt. Kicker Chad Hedlund has only had three touchbacks in 17 attempts and has only connected on five-of-eight field goal attempts with a long of 38 yards.

What will happen: The Tigers got off to a less than stellar start to their ACC schedule last week in Raleigh; however a week in the friendly confines of Death Valley on Homecoming may be just what the doctor ordered. Clemson will be playing with a makeshift offensive line due to injuries at right tackle and left guard, but I don’t expect there to be any drop-off. The Clemson offense will want to open up the running lanes for McDowell early to take a little pressure off of Boyd who will settle in for the first time in 2013. Campanaro will get his touches and his yards for the Deacons, but they just don’t have enough of a rushing attack to keep Beasley and the Clemson defense honest for the entire game allowing the Tigers to get to Price in long yardage situations. You heard it here first…Clemson will finally return a kickoff for a touchdown and get things rolling in the special teams department.

Final Score: Clemson 38 – Wake Forest 13

Post written by Clemson Girl Sports Bloggess Nikki Steele.

Gameday Prediction - Clemson vs. N.C. State

It's a gameday Thursday Clemson Girls!!

Usually on gameday we have a full pregame analysis from our super smart in all things Clemson sports bloggess, Nikki Steele. But unfortunately, Nikki has been sidelined with an injury... she fractured her elbow. Ouch!

So, as you can imagine, she isn't able to type very well right now, and instead of researching tonight's Clemson opponent for her pregrame analysis, she's getting lots of rest -- and we don't blame her one bit. Get well Nikki!

She did send us an article from TigerNet to share that she felt most closely matched her insights on tonight's game:

"Clemson vs. NC State Prediction", written by TigerNet Senior Writer, David Hood
She also didn't want to leave you ladies without her weekly score prediction:
FINAL SCORE: CLEMSON - 37, NC STATE - 17

Here's hoping the Tigers match Nikki's prediction and continue to make us proud with their first game on the road.

Go Tigers!!

Gameday Predition - Clemson vs. S.C. State

The Clemson Tigers have heard from the media about how great they are after beating Georgia 38-35, but if they want to be a contender, they will have to continue their success against teams of lesser quality.

That starts this weekend against FCS and in-state foe South Carolina State.

The goal for Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney is for his team to prepare the same way every week, have the same level of passion and intensity, focus on themselves and get better from week-to-week.

Can the Tigers play with the same intensity as they did against Georgia or will there be a hangover effect from the big win a week ago?

We’ll find out soon.

SOUTH CAROLINA STATE at NO. 4 CLEMSON

When South Carolina State has the ball
South Carolina State runs a hurry up, no huddle offense and likes to try to run at a fast tempo. The Bulldogs return seven starters on offense – two of which were selected as players of the week in the MEAC conference after the Bulldogs 27- 20 loss to Coastal Carolina last weekend. Senior wide receiver Tyler McDonald caught four passes for 108 yards and touchdown, including a long of 74 yards. Running back Justin Taylor carried the ball 24 times for 80 yards and a score. The Bulldogs return redshirt senior quarterback Richard Cue, who completed 13-of-23 passes for 178 yards and a touchdown. Clemson’s very young secondary has the opportunity to grow up a little bit this weekend and gain some very valuable game experience before an off week and starting conference play in two weeks.

When Clemson has the ball
Offensively, the Tigers played relatively well in their first week of action. Wide receiver Sammy Watkins didn’t disappoint with six receptions for 127 yards and a touchdown. However, the real story for the Clemson offense was senior running back Roderick McDowell who started his first game as a Tiger. McDowell carried the ball 22 times for 132 yards. This week, the Tigers need to find quarter back Tajh Boyd a second and third option at wide receiver. Charone Peake did an admiral job last week with five receptions for 58 yards; however, Martavis Bryant didn’t record a catch in the game. There were six drops by the wide receiver corps a week a go and if the Tigers are going to be successful that number must come down. South Carolina State’s defense should be used to the up-tempo offense since that is the style of offense that the Bulldogs run. Look for junior linebacker Justin Hughes to have a big impact on the running game. Hughes registered 9.5 tackles with a tackle for loss in game one.

Special teams
Sophomore punter Bradley Pinion had a tremendous performance a week ago with seven punts for an average of 41 yards per punt and seven kickoffs, all of which were touchbacks. Last season, Swinney said he was looking for Pinion to consistently kick the ball well. Can Pinion build off of his performance last weekend? Last Saturday, Clemson had a muffed punt and a bad read on a punt that almost lead to a Georgia touchdown. Can Clemson clean up its special teams blunders? South Carolina State also has a weapon at punter in senior Nick Belcher who had five punts with an average of 46 yards per punt. Belcher booted a 61-yard punt and pinned Coastal Carolina inside the 20-yard line three times last Saturday.

What will happen
South Carolina State has some good athletes – some of which were recruited by the Tigers; however, this game shouldn’t ever be in doubt. It will be interesting to see how long Boyd and the starting offense are on the field and if Swinney decides to pull his starter in the second half to give the younger players game experience. The Tigers aren’t going to hold the Bulldogs scoreless, but should be able to hold Cue and the Bulldogs’ offense in check. With an off week looming, the Tigers need to find consistency out of the wide receiver spot and find their best defensive backs before heading to N.C. State for a crucial Thursday night battle. On September 19th.

FINAL SCORE: CLEMSON 56- S.C. STATE 16

Post written by Clemson Girl Sports Bloggess Nikki Steele.

National Signing Day 2013 - Clemson recap

ESPNU

National Signing Day is the equivalent of Christmas in February for college football fans all across the country, and for Clemson coaches and fans, Christmas came a little early and filled with many surprises.

Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney signed a class of 23- -all of which will take the Tigers one step closer to being the program they strive to be.

“We got better today, that’s for sure,” Swinney said. “I really feel like today was another step toward being the consistent program that we want to be. It’s all about personnel. We’ve got a really quality group of young men here that have chosen to come be a part of what we hope is going to be a special career for them.”

The class was ranked 13th by ESPN and was highlighted by 5-star defensive back Mackensie Alexander and 4-star offensive lineman Tyrone Crowder, and Swinney said that the young men that chose to come to Clemson could have played anywhere in the country.

“We’ve got a top 15 class in the country coming to join an already very, very talented football team, a group of guys that could have gone to Southern Cal to Florida and everywhere in between,” Swinney said. “These kids had offers, but they chose Clemson, South Carolina.”

Let’s take at look at some of the superlatives from National Signing Day…

BIGGEST SURPRISE: KORRIN WIGGINS
Wiggins, a 3-star defensive back out of Durham (NC) Hillside, was a long-time UNC commit right up until signing, when he announced that he was signing with Clemson. Wiggins took an official visit Clemson in late January, but played his recruitment very close to the vest during the entire process, making his announcement the biggest surprise of 2013. As a senior Wiggins accounted for 90 tackles and seven interceptions. He tallied 80 tackles, 12 pass break ups, and six interceptions during his junior season.

“A huge, huge get for us today. Korrin is, I think, has a great combination, as far as he can play safety,” Swinney said of Wiggins. “He can play nickel. Heck, he could probably play corner. We really like him at the safety position. But another one of those guys that I think is physically developed, kind of ahead of himself for a high school senior. A very mature young man that comes from a great family up in North Carolina. One of those guys that I think has a chance to, hopefully, help us early.”

FILLED THE BIGGEST NEED: MACKENSIE ALEXANDER
The Tigers battled Auburn and Miss. St. for the Alexander’s services, but in the end he made a decision to come to Clemson based on where he felt the most comfortable and where he could have the biggest impact. It’s no secret that the Clemson secondary struggled in 2012, giving up 240.3 yards per game. The 5-star from Immokalee (FL) has all of the physical tools to come in and play at cornerback right away ,especially since the Tigers lost starting corner Xavier Brewer and the position was plagued with injuries last season. The U.S. Army All American had 51 tackles, four interceptions, two caused fumbles, and one recovered fumble.

“He’s a guy that is a rare combination at that position,” Swinney said of Alexander. “With his size and speed and ball skills, ability to finish plays, tackle and all of that. He’s going to bring a work ethic in here that I think is rare amongst young people. This is a guy that knows how to work. He is completely driven and focused on being the best that he can be. That’s the kind of thing that can rub off on a team.”

BIGGEST IMPACT: MIKE WILLIAMS
After the early departure of Clemson’s leading receiver Nuk Hopkins, receiver Mike Williams from Santee (SC) Lake Marion will have the opportunity to step in and play in offensive coordinator Chad Morris’ high octane offense right away. Williams was rated the No. 2 player in the state of South Carolina and he believes that he can have the same type of impact Hopkins had as a freshman, filling a critical need for the Tigers at the receiver position. As a senior, Williams caught 60 passes for 1,395 yards and 10 touchdowns.

“Mike Williams is easily the best guy in this state, a guy that we’re very familiar with,” Swinney said of Williams. “That was a big recruiting get for us right there. We think that he brings great size, character, work ethic, intangibles, tremendous ball skills -- he’s kind of got a little bit of everything…he’ll play big, just like he is.”

MOST UNDERRATED: RYAN CARTER
The recruitment of defensive back Ryan Carter was very tumultuous at times because he hails from Loganville (GA) Grayson, the same school as No. 1 recruit Robert Nkemdiche. The Clemson coaching staff waited until signing day to officially offer Carter in order to avoid the speculation that he was only being offered because of Nkemdiche. However, after seeing Carter play in person last season, the Tigers definitely stole a very talented player out of the state of Georgia. Carter is very quick and could help the Tigers in the return game, especially since Clemson struggled mightily in that phase last season. At defensive back, Carter is always around the ball and making plays. He’s also not afraid of contact and isn’t scared to make the big hit. Carter played on offense and defense for Grayson, tallying 70 tackles and two interceptions while hauling in 49 passes for 1,112 yards and 10 touchdowns.

“Ryan Carter is a guy -- I hate to label him -- I’d say he’ll be the Adam Humphries of this class.,” Swinney said of Carter. “I really feel like this guy… when we look back on this signing class four years from now everybody is going to say, ‘Golly.’ We wanted to, purposely, hold him. He was signed this morning, we, personally, wanted to hold him. Unfortunately, there were some things written in the recruiting process early that were not fair to this young man, not fair at all. This is a heck of a football player. We’re fortunate to have him. I wanted to make sure that he was completely separate so that people wouldn’t write with their own agendas. This is a young man that’s earned his scholarship on his own merit.”

HARDEST HITTER: BEN BOULWARE
National recruiting analyst Tom Lunginbill tabbed Boulware as the identity of what Clemson’s defense strives to be- tough. The 4-star linebacker out of Anderson (SC) T.L. Hanna is the epitome of toughness and physicality. After seeing Boulware play numerous times as a Yellow Jacket, I liken him to the Carolina Panthers’ rookie Luke Kuechly- he simply finds the ball and makes a play. During the Under Armour All-American Game, those that lined up opposite of Boulware knew they needed to buckle their chinstraps before going against Boulware because of his physical play. As a four-year starter, Boulware tallied 592 tackles, 28 tackles for loss, six interceptions, 12 forced fumbles, three recovered fumbles and 10 pass breakups.

“Ben Boulware is as good a prospect you’re going to sign in any recruiting class,” Swinney said of Boulware. “This kid is big-time special.”

Clemson’s 2013 Recruiting Class

• Jadar Johnson, DB -- Orangeburg, SC Orangeburg -- Wilkinson HS
• Shaq Lawson, DE -- Central, SC -- Daniel HS
• Jordan Leggett, TE -- Navarre, FL -- Navarre HS
• Ebenezer Ogundeko, DE -- Brooklyn, NY -- Thomas Jefferson HS
• Wayne Gallman, RB -- Loganville, GA -- Grayson HS
• Kyrin Priester, WR -- Snellville, GA -- Brookwood HS
• Dorian O’Daniel, LB -- Olney, MD -- Our Lady of Good Counsel HS
• Tyshon Dye, RB -- Elberton, GA -- Elbert County HS
• Jayron Kearse, ATH -- Fort Myers, FL -- South Fort Myers HS
• Dane Rogers, Jr., DE -- Shelby, NC -- Crest Senior HS
• Marcus Edmond, DB -- Hopkins, SC -- Lower Richland HS
• Maverick Morris, OL -- Douglas, GA -- Coffey County HS
• D.J. Greenlee, ATH -- Central, SC -- Daniel HS
• Ben Boulware, LB -- Anderson, SC -- T.L. Hanna HS
• Mike Williams, WR -- Holly Hill, SC -- Lake Marion HS
• Adrian Baker, DB -- Hollywood, FL -- Chaminade-Madonna College Prep
• T.J. Green, ATH/KR -- Sylacouga, AL -- Sylacouga HS
• Korrin Wiggins, DB -- Durham, NC -- Hillside HS
• Cordrea Tankersley, DB -- Aiken, SC -- Silver Bluff HS
• Mackensie Alexander, DB -- Immokalee, FL -- Immokalee HS
• Ryan Carter, DB -- Loganville, GA -- Grayson HS
• Scott Pagano, DT -- Honolulu, HI -- Moanalua HS
• Tyrone Crowder, Jr., OL -- Rockingham, NC -- Richmond County HS

This post was written by Clemson Girl's Sports Bloggess, Nikki Steele.

Game Prediction - Chick-fil-a Bowl - Clemson vs. LSU

As college football fans, we fill eight months with baseball and basketball while anxiously awaiting the 12 Saturdays that we get to watch our favorite teams.

Well Clemson fans, this is it.

The Clemson Tigers exceeded expectations by finishing the regular season 10-2 with an ACC Atlantic Championship; however, Monday night’s Chick-fil-a Bowl against LSU in Atlanta, Georgia is not just another game.

It’s a time for Clemson to prove that they belong with the big boys of the SEC.

Can Clemson prove that it is the superior streak of tigers?

NO. 8 LSU VS NO. 14 CLEMSON

WHY LSU MIGHT WIN: LSU prides itself on being the most physical team on the field week in and week out and that’s not something that Clemson is used to. If LSU plays the way it’s capable of playing, the Cajun Tigers will control the line of scrimmage on offense and defense making it a long night for Clemson. LSU head coach Les Miles doesn’t use any tricks on offense, but in the words of Clemson defensive coordinator Brent Venables he just wants to “pound you into oblivion.” That’s just what Miles does with four running backs who all have over 350 yards rushing. LSU will let quarterback Zach Mettenberger throw the ball after he found his stride late in the season passing for over 250 yards twice in the month of November. On the defensive side of the ball, LSU is only giving up 101 yards per game on the ground, which won’t do Clemson any favors when running back Andre Ellington tries to balance the Clemson offense.

WHY CLEMSON MIGHT WIN: Tigers travel in an ambush and ambush is exactly what Clemson will need to do Monday night in order to emerge from the Georgia Dome victorious. Not many teams have actually been able to stop the sixth ranked Clemson offense in 2012 as it is averaging just over 518 yards and 42 points per game, but quarterback Tajh Boyd and company will need to hit on all cylinders from the first snap. Wide receiver Sammy Watkins said earlier this week that he wants to avenge his absence from Clemson’s win against Auburn in the Georgia Dome in week one and he is ready to be the Sammy from 2011- explosive and unstoppable. There is no doubt that LSU has great depth, however the Baton Rouge Tigers have only faced on spread offense this season- Texas A&M- and it took a late touchdown for LSU to emerge victorious. The good news for the Clemson defense is that LSU’s offensive strength is lining up in the I-formation and running it up the middle- something that Clemson has proven it can consistently stop this season. LSU is going to run the ball and try to control the clock, so if Clemson can stop the occasional play-action pass and get off the field, the Tigers from South Carolina have a great shot at leaving the Georgia Dome with a win.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN: The Clemson Tigers faced two teams ranked in the top-10 in Florida State and South Carolina, which led to Clemson’s only two losses. The physical nature of the oppositions’ defense slowed down Clemson’s high-powered offense and the Clemson defense couldn’t get s stop when it needed one most. The most physical defense that Clemson has faced coupled with an offense that improved over the last month of the season with Mettenberger will not bode well for the Tigers of the east. Unfortunately, I have to pick against Clemson for the first time in 2012…

FINAL SCORE: LSU 23- CLEMSON 17


Post written by Clemson Girl's Sports Bloggess, Nikki Steele.

Clemson Gameday Photos - Clemson vs. USC

What.a.game. Mix a night game in Death Valley and a huge in-state rivalry game, and you've got a heck of a game. Every year this rivalry game is a nail biter to the end. Our Tigers fought hard, but in the end, they just couldn't get the plays made to beat their arch nemesis the Gamecocks.

Final score: Clemson 17, USC 27.

Heartbreaking. But the Tigers still had a great season, finishing strong and no doubt heading to a big bowl game against a more challenging competitor.

One of the best things about a night game is that it gives you ALL day to tailgate. And even though Clemson fans and Gamecock fans are on opposite sides of the field during the game, you definitely saw many tailgates-divided during the day - meaning that even though we can't agree on the same team, we can still share a cold beverage at the tailgate and play cornhole together. :)

Special thanks to Summer Priddy and Melissa Nelson for taking gameday photos for Clemson Girl this past weekend. Also, big thanks to our readers who submitted their own gameday photos to be shared.

Can you believe this football season is just about over? Time flies! You can view Saturday's gameday photos in the slideshow below, or you can see the entire album on our Flickr site.

Gameday Prediction - Clemson vs. Georgia Tech

Georgia Tech has been a thorn in Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney’s side since he became head coach.

Swinney has won just one game in five tries, but his Clemson Tigers have a new mindset and toughness about them, as well as boasting the nation’s fifth-longest active home win streak.

Can Swinney and the Tigers reverse their fortunes against a struggling Yellow Jackets squad?

GEORGIA TECH AT NO. 15 CLEMSON

WHY GEORGIA TECH MIGHT WIN
Paul Johnson’s Yellow Jackets are off to a less than stellar start at 2-3 after losing the last two to Miami in an overtime thriller and Middle Tennessee State in a blowout. Johnson has questioned his team’s manhood and challenged them to step up on both sides of the ball. Last season, the Tigers and Jackets squared off after Tech lost its previous two games. Clemson will always get Georgia Tech’s A-game and best shot because let’s face it- the two teams aren’t very fond of one another.

Tech is led by second-year starting quarterback Tevin Washington, who leads the ACC in touchdowns scored with 11. Washington is very capable of running the triple-option offense and has even scattered in a few nice throws this season. He is becoming a better-rounded quarterback which could be scary for Clemson’s defense.

The Jackets also have running back Orwin Smith, who has rushed for 245 yards and two touchdowns. The Tech defense has been a concern as of late, giving up over 500 yards of total offense and 91 points over the last two games. However, the Jackets have had key injuries to outside linebacker Jeremiah Attaochu and cornerback Louis Young, who are both expected to return this week. And, defensive coordinator Al Groh had a lot of success against Clemson last season dropping eight into coverage and pressuring Clemson quarterback Tajh Boyd.

WHY CLEMSON MIGHT WIN
Offensive Coordinator Chad Morris has the Clemson offense clicking on all cylinders through the first five weeks of the season. Coming into the season, all eyes were on wide receiver Sammy Watkins, but Watkins’ absence in three games has forced other playmakers to step up. Most notably, Nuk Hopkins, Jaron Brown, and Brandon Ford have stepped up their games and proven that this offense doesn’t revolve around Watkins. Andre Ellington is healthy for the first time in his Clemson career, which has paid dividends for the Tigers. Ellington has had three career games so far this season- two rushing career highs and on career high in receiving yards.

The Tigers are going to score and score a lot. The key to this game will be the Clemson defense. Can the Tiger defense do their jobs and stick to their assignments? The matchup that needs to be watched closest will be Clemson’s defensive line versus Tech’s offensive line. Clemson defenders need to get off their blocks and use good technique to avoid the cut block on the inside. After shedding the blockers, just hit somebody. Whoever has Washington, hit him on every play. Whoever has Smith, hit him. Just hit somebody. The Jackets are going to get their yards and they are going to score, but the key- as is every week- is not giving up the big play. The defensive line and linebackers must contain Washington on every play and the secondary can’t get lulled to sleep by long stints of running plays because eventually Johnson will dial up a pass.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN
Twelve of the last 17 games have been decide by five points or less, making the series one of the most competitive in the country; however, this one won’t be as close. Points will be scored by both teams, but the key will be for the Tigers to get points on every possession, and based on Tech’s defensive performance this year that is very possible. This game will be close heading into the fourth quarter, but the Tigers offense will just be too much for a Georgia Tech defense that lacks depth.

FINAL SCORE: CLEMSON, 42- GEORGIA TECH, 27

Post written by Clemson Girl's Sports Bloggess, Nikki Steele.

Gameday Prediction - Clemson vs. Boston College

If the Clemson Tigers want to prove that the 2012 squad can be something special, they must start this weekend doing something that only one Clemson team in the last seven years has been able to accomplish.

Win at Boston College.

Alumni Stadium in Chestnut Hill, MA has been less than friendly to Clemson as the Tigers have only managed to win one time since Boston College joined the ACC in 2005.

The Tigers will have to manage to scrap out a win without star wide receiver Sammy Watkins, who is out with a stomach virus, and wide receiver Martavis Bryant who underwent emergency surgery for a groin injury Tuesday night.

Clemson still has plenty of weapons on the offensive side of the ball, but the big question that remains going into week five of the season is, does the Tiger defense have enough horses to make stops and win the game?

Will the Clemson defense step up this week and take the pressure off of the Clemson offense?

NO. 17 CLEMSON AT BOSTON COLLEGE

WHY BOSTON COLLEGE MIGHT WIN: Boston College has history and a curse at Alumni Stadium on their side, where even much more talented Clemson teams always find a way to lose. The Eagles are led on offense by junior quarterback Chase Rettig, who has improved since his first start back in 2010. Rettig has thrown for 951 yards, with six touchdowns and one interception. The Eagles’ leading rusher is Andre Williams, who has 36 carries for 117 yards. Rettig likes to spread the ball around to three different receivers, who all have over 100 yards so far this season- Alex Amidon, Tahj Kimble, and Jonathan Coleman. If the offensive line can hold Clemson’s defensive line, then Rettig can get the ball to his targets, because Clemson’s secondary has proven to be suspect many times this season. On defense, Boston College has three of the ACC’s top tacklers in Nick Clancy, Kevin Pierre-Louis, and Steele Divitto. Those three linebackers will have a huge part in determining how effective Clemson’s running game will be, especially since Clemson will be without Watkins and will be forced to just line up and run the ball.

WHY CLEMSON MIGHT WIN: The Clemson Tigers have so much speed and talent on offense - with dual threat quarterback Tajh Boyd, running back Andre Ellington, and wide receivers Nuk Hopkins and Jaron Brown - that opposing defenses can’t pick just one player to key on or they will get beat by the others. This should be the case against Boston College. The Eagles have a great linebacking corps, but the linebackers can’t cover the Tigers’ wide receivers. The running game may get off to a slow start because of the Eagles’ big defensive line and linebackers, but at some point defensive coordinator Bill McGovern will have to drop a linebacker or two into coverage, opening up things Andre Ellington. The Clemson defense shouldn’t have as difficult of a time this weekend as they did matching up with the FSU playmakers, so maybe- just maybe- we will see a Clemson defense play a solid game. Clemson defensive tackles Josh Watson, DeShawn Williams and Grady Jarrett have been solid so far this season ,preventing opposing offenses from just running the ball up the middle. Linebacker Tig Willard seems to always be around the ball and in position to make a tackle. And, Clemson fans are watching a star grow before their eyes in freshman Travis Blanks. Blanks made some mistakes last week, but his talent continues to show and he is emerging as a leader on the defense.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN: The Tigers will come out and try to establish the run early, but will have little success due to the Eagles’ front seven on defense. Clemson offensive coordinator Chad Morris will continue to run the ball, because as the game wears on, the Boston College defense will wear down and holes will open up for Ellington. The Clemson defense will be, well, the Clemson defense, giving up yards and points, but at the end of the day Boyd and the Tiger offense will prove too much for Eagles to handle.

FINAL SCORE: CLEMSON 37 BOSTON COLLEGE 24

Post written by Clemson Girl's Sports Bloggess, Nikki Steele.

Clemson Sports: Game Prediction - Clemson vs. FSU

This post was featured on the Huffington Post sports section on Saturday, Sept. 22, 2012.

There is no reason for the Clemson Tigers to board the buses to Tallahassee, because they have no chance of winning in Doak Campbell Stadium Saturday night.

If you have listened to the national media for the last week, then you know that the 10th-ranked Tigers have no shot at staying within two touchdowns of No. 4 Florida State. And, according to FSU head coach Jimbo Fisher, the Tigers are very similar to Wake Forest – the team FSU beat 52-0 last week - but with a few more “bells and whistles.”

The Tigers and Noles are set to show the nation how good the ACC can be as the teams take center stage in an 8 p.m. game on ABC Saturday night.

Do the Tigers stand a chance or should they just stay in South Carolina?

Let’s take a look at how the two teams match up.

NO. 10 CLEMSON (3-0, 0-0 ACC) AT NO. 4 FLORIDA STATE (3-0, 1-0)

WHY FLORIDA STATE MIGHT WIN
The Seminoles have the number one defense in the country after allowing only three points in three games. The Seminoles return nine starters on a defense that was ranked in the top-five a year ago, and can stake claim to the top defensive line in country with the talents of Everett Dawkins, Bjoern Werner, and Cornellius Carradine. Werner leads the country with six-and-a-half sacks this season and Carradine isn’t far behind with three-and-a-half. The Noles are only allowing 70 yards through the air and 34 yards on the ground.

The defense is without a doubt the strongest unit on the FSU squad, but the offense is no push-over, averaging just over 52 points per game. The offense is led by senior quarterback E.J. Manuel, who has completed 71-percent of his passes for 525 yards, six touchdowns, and one interception. As much of a threat as Manuel is to run the ball, the Nole offense starts with running back Chris Thompson, who has carried the ball 18 times for 254 yards and three touchdowns. Thompson rushed for 194 yards a week ago against Wake Forest, all in the first half. At wide receiver, Florida St. is led by Kenny Shaw and Kelvin Benjamin, who have two touchdown receptions each.

WHY CLEMSON MIGHT WIN
For all the talk of FSU’s talented defense, the Clemson Tigers have quite a few playmakers on the offensive side of the ball. The Noles will have a big decision to make in who to cover and who to take their chances on. The Clemson offense starts with junior quarterback Tajh Boyd, who has thrown for 747 yards, six touchdowns and one interception and has rushed for 75 yards this season. Against Auburn in week one, Boyd showed that he was plenty capable of keeping plays alive with his feet as well as getting the ball to his playmakers.

Unlike week one, Boyd will have sophomore wide receiver Sammy Watkins in his arsenal of weapons. Watkins was a freshman All-American who had 1219 yards and 12 touchdowns last year, but was suspended for the first two games of the season. To complement Watkins, Boyd can also play toss-and-catch with Nuk Hopkins, who already has four touchdowns and 319 receiving yards. Not to be left out is running back Andre Ellington, who made spectacular runs against Auburn and has rushed for 328 yards and four touchdowns. If the Florida St. defense can manage to cover those three, the Tigers will simply get the ball to Jaron Brown, Brandon Ford, Adam Humphries Charone Peake, or Martavis Bryant, players who are all dangerous in their own right.

The offense has kept the Tigers on pace, while the defense continues to be a work in progress under first year coordinator Brent Venables. Clemson is very young, but solid up front with tackles DeShawn Williams and Josh Watson. At linebacker, the Tigers have heavy hitters in Stephone Anthony, Tig Willard and self-proclaimed headhunter Lateek Townsend. The Tigers will need to stop FSU’s rushing attack and get solid play from the front seven to allow the secondary to settle in and prevent the long play when Manuel decides to throw the ball. Venables has proven over the last two seasons – he was at Oklahoma before coming to Clemson this season - that he is plenty capable of game planning against the Noles and stopping Manuel and offense. If Venables can translate his knowledge from the Sooners to the Tigers, then Clemson has a shot to emerge victorious. But, the Tigers must not allow the big, chunk plays that have plagued them throughout the first three games of the season.

THE X-FACTORS

CLEMSON OFFENSIVE LINE: The Clemson offensive line has been pieced together for much of the season and the original starting five have not played together since the next to last play of the Auburn game. But when they were together, they were successful at opening up rushing lanes and giving Boyd ample time to find his playmakers. The line will have a difficult task in handling the front four on Florida State’s defensive line. The offensive line will have to protect Boyd long enough for him to get rid of the ball or extend plays with his legs. The Clemson line has three new starters, but center Dalton Freeman and right guard Tyler Shatley have a toughness about them that has been missing from the Tigers’ front for many years.

FLORIDA STATE SECONDARY: The Clemson offense has so many weapons at wide receiver in Hopkins, Watkins, Humphries, Bryant and Brown, and for the FSU defense it almost becomes a ‘pick your poison’ type of deal. If Florida State defensive coordinator Mark Stoops decides to double-team Watkins, Hopkins is plenty capable of racking up 100 receiving yards and multiple touchdowns on his own. Defensive backs Xavier Rhodes and Lemarcus Joyner will be tasked with keeping tabs on the Tiger’s receiving corps, and if they can’t do it alone, FSU will be forced to drop a linebacker into coverage, which could ultimately open up the running game for Ellington and company.

CLEMSON OFFENSIVE SNAP COUNT: The Clemson Tigers are averaging just over 79 plays per game, while the FSU defense has only been on the field for 162 plays over the course of three games. If the Tigers can run at least 80 plays, they will have an advantage over the Noles on a hot and humid night in Tallahassee. Many will make the claim that Florida State’s defense should be well-rested and fresh, but playing in the heat against an offense that likes to snap the ball with 25 to 30 seconds remaining on the play clock can take a toll on a defense that has yet to play an entire game.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN
The Seminoles will come out with a lot of energy on defense, and will hold the Clemson offense in check for the first half, while the Clemson defense will give up yards, but keep the Noles from racking up a ton of points. Going into the second half, the score will be close, but a FSU defense that hasn’t been tested and hasn’t played four quarters of football will begin to tire towards the end of the third quarter and the Tigers will put the game away to win a game that nobody outside of Clemson gave them a chance of winning.

FINAL SCORE: CLEMSON, 35 - FLORIDA ST. 24

Post written by Clemson Girl Sports Bloggess Nikki Steele

Clemson Sports: Game Prediction - Clemson vs. Furman

The moment that Clemson nation has waited for has finally arrived.

Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney can turn the Deuce loose.

After a tumultuous off season, sophomore sensation Sammy Watkins will finally put everything behind him and just play the game he loves.

His first victim will be FCS opponent Furman, who makes the short trek from northern Greenville to Death Valley Saturday at 3 p.m.

Furman at No. 11 Clemson

WHY FURMAN MIGHT WIN
The Furman Paladins come to town with an 0-2 record after suffering a triple overtime loss to Coastal Carolina a week ago. They will also be starting a new quarterback in Greer native Reese Hannon. Even though Hannon will be making his first start, he showed a lot of promise last week as he threw for 255 yards and four touchdowns after an injury to starting quarterback Dakota Derrick. Hannon, who grew up a Clemson fan will be looking to make a statement in Death Valley- a place that he has watched many Clemson games. Hannon will target senior tight end Colin Anderson, who led the team last year with 40 catches for 696 yards and seven touchdowns, making him a consensus All-SoCon selection. The Paladins will try to establish the run game early, knowing that the Tigers gave up over 200 yards on the ground to Ball State last week. Sophomore running back Jerodis Williams will lead the running attack after rushing for 1,055 yards in 2011.

WHY CLEMSON MIGHT WIN
Clemson gets its most explosive player in Watkins back for the first time in 2012 and you can bet that offensive coordinator Chad Morris will figure out how to fit him into an already successful Clemson offense. Add Watkins in with running back Andre Ellington, quarterback Tajh Boyd and receiver Nuk Hopkins and I’m not sure that the Paladins have enough men to stop Clemson from scoring on each offensive possession. The Clemson defense has received a ton of criticism during the first two weeks of the season and rightly so, but one thing that has been overlooked is the fact that an area of the defense has improved each week. The defense was porous outside of the defensive line against Auburn, but the secondary was much improved against Ball St. holding the Cardinals to less than 150 yards passing. This week could be the week for the linebacker and defensive line to step up their game and stop the run.

THREE THINGS TO WATCH

CLEMSON’S RUN DEFENSE: The Clemson defense has given up 432 yards on the ground in the first two games, and if the Tigers want to be successful they have to stop the opposing team’s ground attack. There aren’t glaring deficiencies at any position in the defense- it is simply a lack of experience and fine-tuning the details of defensive coordinator Brent Venables. Venables has challenged his defense to step up and be tough against the run , and I think that stopping Furman on Saturday will give the defense a huge boost of confidence before they go on the road for the next two weeks.

THE SAMMY WATKINS FACTOR: Tiger nation and college football fans everywhere have been waiting on the return of Watkins to see if he can build on his record-breaking freshman season or if he was a one-year wonder. All of the media-types at the game will be tracking Watkins’ touches to see how many passes he gets thrown his way, how many times he runs the ball and how many returns on special teams he gets. This will just be a warm-up for Watkins and the Clemson offense, because I feel almost certain that Morris is keeping his offensive playbook under wraps until next week against Florida State.

THE EMERGENCE OF YOUNG STARS: Last week, Swinney was able to play 80 players against Ball St. and I expect this week to be no different. The young reserves will get a chance to show what they are made of and earn the respect of their coaches and fellow players. Who will step up and who will see their last action of the season? Linebacker Tony Steward should see a lot of game action after being injured last season with a torn ACL. Freshman running back Zac Brooks needs to gain game experience so that he will be ready to contribute next season with the departure of Ellington. Punter Bradley Pinion will also be called upon this weekend to gain more consistency in his game to hopefully give senior Spencer Benton a break from all of his duties.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN: Furman has always been known as one of those teams that can cause trouble for the big boys in college football beating the likes of Georgia Tech and South Carolina. They also gave Florida a little scare in the Swamp last season. However, Clemson just has too many offensive weapons for the Paladins to have much success defensively. This game will be very similar to last Saturday, meaning that the starters will get an early break after gaining big lead and the reserves will get to come in and show their stuff.

FINAL SCORE: CLEMSON 63, FURMAN 20

Post written by Clemson Girl's Sports Bloggess, Nikki Steele.

Clemson Sports: Clemson vs. Auburn Game Prediction

Do you remember when you were a little kid and you couldn’t sleep on Christmas Eve because you were so excited to see what Santa Claus brought you?

If you are a Clemson fan, the car has been packed for two days, the flags have been flying since you left for work Monday morning, you were decked out in all orange yesterday for Solid Orange Friday, and you left shortly after you got off work to make your way to Atlanta. Chances are you got very little sleep last night because you were too excited for the kickoff of the 2012 Clemson football season.

And, this morning you most likely woke up with a huge smile on your face because you know in a few short hours you will watch your [Clemson] Tigers in the Georgia Dome, clap your hands to the sounds of Tiger Band, and yell Cadence Count at the top of your lungs with 31,000 of your closest friends.

Who will win bragging rights in the final game between the Tigers in the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Classic?

NO. 14 CLEMSON VS. AUBURN

WHY CLEMSON MIGHT WIN
The Clemson Tigers return playmakers in Nuk Hopkins, Andre Ellington, Jaron Brown, Brandon Ford, Charone Peake, and Martavis Bryant on offense. And, with Tajh Boyd returning at quarterback anything is possible. Boyd showed during the first eight games of last season that he can get the ball to his skill players and put the team in position to win. If the offensive line can give him time, it will be a very long night for Auburn.

On defense, Clemson is very inexperienced, but with a simplified scheme they have a chance to be very successful. In this first game, Clemson is going against a revamped offensive line for Auburn that will be without starter Reese Dismukes after he was arrested last weekend for public intoxication. In addition to an inexperienced offensive line, Auburn is starting quarterback Kiehl Frazer who played in all 13 games a year ago, but only attempted 12 passes. If Clemson can contain Auburn’s running game and let the linebackers and defensive line take over, Auburn’s success on offense will be very limited.

WHY AUBURN MIGHT WIN
For all of the talk of Clemson’s playmakers, Auburn has a ton of talent on the offensive side of the ball and it all begins with senior running back Onterio McCalebb, who rushed for 641 yards and five touchdowns last season. If the Auburn offensive line gives him a crease he will run a long way. Frazier could be a nightmare for Clemson’s defense - Clemson is known to have had difficulty with running quarterbacks in the past. Tight end Philip Lutzenkirchen can be a match-up problem for Clemson as well because he is a big, physical receiving threat that isn’t easily covered by a linebacker.

Defensively, Auburn is very talented and is under the leadership of former Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Brian VanGorder who is known to blitz a lot. At the forefront of that blitz will be Auburn’s most explosive defensive player in Corey Lemonier- who we’ll discuss later. Auburn is very talented on defense, but similar to Clemson in that there isn’t a lot of experienced depth behind the starters.

THE X-FACTORS

Clemson wide receiver Jaron Brown: When people think about Clemson’s playmakers on offense Sammy Watkins, Nuk Hopkins, and Andre Ellington are usually the first that come to mind. The forgotten man is senior wide receiver Jaron Brown who a year ago was clutch for the Tigers. If it was third down and long, Brown was on the receiving end of a Tajh Boyd pass converting for the first down. Auburn’s defense will key in on Ellington and Hopkins leaving Brown unnoticed. If he can continue his consistency from 2011, he could be the key to a Clemson victory.

Auburn defensive end Corey Lemonier: Corey Lemonier is the anchor on a very talented Auburn defensive line and was an All-SEC selection in 2011. The junior defensive end tallied 47 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, and 9.5 sacks last season. He has battled injuries during fall camp, but Auburn head coach Gene Chizik expects him to play Saturday night. Lemonier will either be matched up with redshirt junior Brandon Thomas who is the second most experienced offensive lineman on Clemson’s roster or with redshirt sophomore Giff Timothy who has never started a game. Clemson must slow Lemonier down in order to be successful in both the passing and running games.

Clemson right guard Tyler Shatley: Clemson fans have longed for an offensive lineman that will be a physical and imposing player on every down, and Dabo Swinney thinks he has found that man in Tyler Shatley. Shatley is a defensive tackle turned offensive lineman after there was a concern about the lack of depth on the line. According to multiple players, Shatley brings that nastiness that the line has been missing since the days of Dustin and Roman Fry. Expect Clemson running back Andre Ellington to run to the right side behind Shatley for the majority of the game. If he can open up holes for Ellington and company, the Auburn defense is in for a long night in the Georgia Dome.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN
This is the rubber match between the Tigers and as we’ve seen over the previous two years, anything can happen. Both teams have come back from large deficits to win in dramatic fashion- Auburn in 2010 and Clemson in 2011. And, let’s not forget that this game is in the dreaded Georgia Dome. Clemson is very explosive on offense with playmakers at wide receiver and running back and I’m not sure that the Auburn defense has the horses to stay with Clemson for four quarters. On defense, Clemson fans will be pleasantly surprised with improvement on that side of the ball. Expect the game to be close heading into the fourth quarter, but the good guys- Clemson- will pull away.

FINAL SCORE 35-24, CLEMSON

Post written by Clemson Girl's sports bloggess Nikki Steele.

2012 Clemson Football Schedule & quick note from our Sports Bloggess

Today the ACC (finally) announced the 2012 football schedule, and Clemson fans can finally plan their Fall. What do you think of the schedule? Which games are you most looking forward to?

Clemson 2012 Football Schedule

Date                                Opponent
Sept. 1 ----------------- #Auburn
Sept. 8 ----------------- BALL STATE
Sept. 15 ---------------- FURMAN
Sept. 22 ---------------- at Florida State
Sept. 29 ---------------- at Boston College
Oct. 6 ------------------ GEORGIA TECH
Oct. 13 ----------------- Open Date
Oct. 20 ----------------- VIRGINIA TECH
Oct. 25 ----------------- at Wake Forest
Nov. 3 ------------------ at Duke
Nov. 10 ----------------- MARYLAND
Nov. 17 ----------------- NC STATE
Nov. 24 ----------------- SOUTH CAROLINA

# - Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game, at Georgia Dome, Atlanta, GA

Read more details about the schedule on clemsontigers.com.

And here's a quick note from our amazing Clemson Sports Bloggess, Nikki Steele:

Great expectations often lead to even greater disappointment.

And, even two months can’t heal the pain for some.

Fresh off of a systematic dismantling of the Virginia Tech Hokies in Charlotte’s ACC Championship Game and a berth in the Discover Orange Bowl, Dabo Swinney’s Clemson Tigers went to work preparing for their final opponent of the season- the West Virginia Mountaineers.

If you listened to the national pundits, you got the feeling that the January 4th matchup between two potent offenses may come down to which defense made a stop in the final minutes of the game. It was Clemson’s Tajh Boyd, Andre Ellington, and Sammy Watkins against West Virginia’s Geno Smith, Tevon Austin, and Steadman Bailey.

The first quarter of the Discover Orange Bowl went about as expected and then a freak play where the ball was stripped from Ellington’s hands as he appeared to cross the goal line changed the course for the rest of the night and into the early morning as the Tigers seemingly couldn’t do anything right while everything was going right for the Mountaineers as West Virginia went on to the 70-33 victory.

On that chilly Miami night, the Clemson “Shock the World Tour” ended with a shocked Clemson football team and an angry fan base.

But, let’s rewind to a year before- New Year’s Eve in Charlotte, NC where an upset Dabo Swinney and his team just lost the Meineke Car Care Bowl to South Florida after a valiant effort by Boyd and tight end Brandon Ford came up short.

Swinney promised to do everything in his power to right the ship and he followed that promise with the hiring of offensive coordinator Chad Morris who turned a stagnant offense into one of the most powerful offenses in the country.

This year, however, Swinney made the same promise, but it would involve firing a long-time friend and one of the first guys that he hired after becoming the head coach- defensive coordinator Kevin Steele.

Now, fast forward to a national coaching search and long-time Oklahoma defensive coordinator Brent Venables is wearing the color that he hates most- orange. Venables promised to bring in a simple system where Clemson defenders would play tough, physical, and disciplined defense.

Can seven months, a top-ten recruiting class, and a new defensive coordinator cure the ills of Tiger Nation and do orange-clad fans dare get their hopes up for what might be in 2012?

I guess only time will tell and September is just around the corner.

Post written by Clemson Girl sports blogger Nikki Steele.

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