After experiencing two vastly different performances in their first two games, Clemson faces an early bye week. Typically, having a break after a game like the one against Appalachian State can disrupt a team’s momentum. However, if used wisely, this bye week could be crucial for the Tigers’ success.
From an external perspective, it’s challenging to determine whether the Clemson team from week one or week two is the true representation of their capabilities. For those inside the program, this extra week provides an opportunity to analyze what went right against App State and what went wrong against Georgia. This insight could help the Tigers build momentum and achieve a successful season.
Week One Blunders
For the Tigers, week one served as a period of self-reflection. Defensively, Clemson managed to hold their ground against the Bulldogs in the first half. However, Georgia eventually exploited a vulnerability in the Tigers’ defense by gaining significant yardage on outside runs. Clemson’s outside defenders struggled to maintain proper edge control, and when the defense became more aggressive to counter these runs, Georgia exploited the openings with successful passes over the top.
The offense, however, was the most glaring issue. It struggled throughout the game, generating just 188 total yards. Cade Klubnik had a tough day, appearing hesitant and lacking confidence in his decisions. He completed 62% of his passes for 142 yards but threw an interception. Despite this, a well-known football adage is that the best teams show the most improvement between their first and second games, and for this 2024 Clemson team, this proved to be true.
Week Two Success
In their week two matchup against Appalachian State, Clemson appeared to be an entirely different team compared to their performance against Georgia. This transformation was particularly evident on the offensive side of the ball. The Tigers amassed 712 total yards, over 500 more than the previous game. Cade Klubnik, displaying newfound confidence and poise from the first play, saw his completion rate soar to 92% as he threw for 378 yards and five touchdowns. Additionally, he rushed for two more touchdowns, bringing his total to seven for the game.
Klubnik’s stellar performance was complemented by a diverse receiving corps. Four Tigers caught touchdown passes: Jake Briningstool with two, and Antonio Williams, Bryant Wesco Jr., and TJ Moore with one each. On the defensive side, Clemson effectively neutralized Appalachian State’s quarterback, Joey Aguilar, preventing him from gaining momentum. Aguilar ended the night with 214 yards, a touchdown, and only 18 completions out of 41 attempts.
Clemson’s defensive backs, particularly Avieon Terrell, shone brightly; Terrell recorded two tackles and four pass breakups while effectively covering his assignments. Moving forward from the bye week, Clemson’s defense will need to enhance its performance by generating more turnovers, securing sacks, and achieving tackles for loss to disrupt opposing offenses.
Can Clemson Get Hot?
The performance in week two suggests that the Tigers might be on the verge of a strong winning streak. Although having a bye week means they can’t build directly on their recent success, it provides valuable time to assess what worked and what didn’t between their first two games. This period allows Dabo Swinney and his team to devise a strategy to maintain their momentum.
Starting next week, Clemson will dive into conference play, beginning with a match against North Carolina State. Despite a tough loss to Tennessee in week two, the Wolfpack remains a contender in the ACC Championship race. Last season, Clemson lost to a Wolfpack team that many considered less talented, so the Tigers must ensure they avoid a repeat performance in Death Valley.
For Clemson to make a strong run toward the ACC Championship, consistency will be crucial, particularly on offense. If Klubnik and the offense can build on their week two performance and correct the issues from week one, the Tigers could have their best season in recent years.
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