By Garin Turner
The #12 Clemson Tigers (1–1) survived a scare last week, storming back from a 16-point deficit to defeat Troy 27–16. Now they open ACC play on the road against an unbeaten Georgia Tech squad (2–0) on Saturday at noon ET on ESPN.
Clemson Searching for Offensive Rhythm
Through two games, Clemson’s offense hasn’t found its stride. The Tigers are averaging just 288.5 total yards per game, ranking near the bottom nationally, and scoring only 18.5 points per game. The running attack has been almost nonexistent, producing 75.5 yards per contest.
Quarterback Cade Klubnik has thrown for 426 yards and two touchdowns while completing 37 of 62 passes, but he’s also been intercepted twice and sacked twice.
Freshman receiver Bryant Wesco Jr. has been a bright spot, catching 11 passes for 184 yards and two scores. Tyler Brown (88 yards) and T.J. Moore (56 yards) provide depth in the passing game. On the ground, Adam Randall has 128 yards and two touchdowns, but the Tigers need more consistency.
Injuries Add to the Challenge
The Tigers will be shorthanded against the Yellow Jackets. Wideout Antonio Williams, safety Khalil Barnes, and left tackle Tristan Leigh are all sidelined. Losing Leigh is particularly concerning for a line already struggling to protect Klubnik.
Defense Keeping Clemson Afloat
While the offense sputters, Clemson’s defense has carried the load.
- Ronan Hanafin leads the unit with 18 tackles.
- Wade Woodaz (17) and Sammy Brown (14) aren’t far behind.
- Will Heldt leads the team with two sacks, while Avieon Terrell, T.J. Parker, and DeMonte Capehart each have one.
- Clemson has forced five turnovers: interceptions from Ricardo Jones, Hanafin, and Ashton Hampton, plus fumble recoveries by Kylon Griffin and Terrell.
If the Tigers are going to slow down Georgia Tech’s high-tempo attack, this group will need another strong showing.
Georgia Tech Off to a Hot Start
The Yellow Jackets are flying high with one of the nation’s most productive offenses:
- 571.5 yards per game (top-five nationally).
- Nearly 300 passing yards and 270 rushing yards each outing.
- Averaging 43 points per game.
Quarterback Haynes King has been nursing a lower-body injury but returned to practice this week. If he’s limited, Aaron Philo has shown he’s capable, throwing for 373 yards and three touchdowns in a 58–7 win over Gardner-Webb.
Series History and Outlook
Saturday marks the 90th all-time meeting between the programs. Georgia Tech leads the series historically, but Clemson has dominated the rivalry recently, winning nine straight.
Oddsmakers list Clemson as a slight favorite, though many expect a tight matchup.
Keys to the Game
- Protecting Klubnik: With Leigh out, the Tigers must keep their quarterback upright.
- Running Game Balance: Clemson cannot afford to be one-dimensional.
- Turnover Battle: Clemson’s defense has created takeaways — they’ll need more.
- Containing Georgia Tech’s Ground Attack: The Jackets’ rushing game could tilt time of possession.
Prediction
Clemson’s defense should keep them in the game, but their offensive issues are hard to ignore. If Georgia Tech runs the ball effectively and avoids mistakes, the Tigers could be in real trouble. Expect a close battle, with Clemson’s experience and defensive edge making the difference late.
Projected Final: Clemson 27, Georgia Tech 20.
