Clemson rounded out the 2008 regular season on a high note, defeating the rival Gamecocks from South Carolina 31-14 in Death Valley over Thanksgiving weekend. The final score was not even indicative of how lopsided the game really was. If not for some bonehead fumbles and a couple of missed field goals, the margin of victory would have been much greater. The defense picked off Carolina QB Chris Smelley four times, and the offense capitalized by turning that into three touchdowns. It was obvious that Clemson's goal on offense was to run the ball right down the Gamecocks' throat, and they more than succeeded. James Davis and C.J. Spiller combined for almost 180 yards on 40 carries. Davis, one of Clemson's finest players in recent memory, ran in 3 more touchdowns on Senior Day, leaving him just one behind the school record.
The win marked a great turnaround for the Tigers, who won 4 of their last 5 games under coach Dabo Swinney to qualify for a bowl game. The victory over the arch rival Gamecocks might have cemented Swinney's position as the next permanent head coach. As the final seconds ran off, the players lifted a Gatorade-soaked Soaked onto their shoulders as he was serenaded with cheers of "Da-bo Swin-ney!" from the student section. It was the opposite feeling for Carolina coach Steve Spurrier, as he fell to 1-3 against Clemson. It only continues the trend of USC becoming the place where good coaches go to die. The Tigers will begin preparing for their upcoming bowl game and look to quickly determine their future head coach. The next few weeks will be very important in shaping the next 5-10 years of Clemson's football program.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Homecoming Victory
The Tigers responded on a blustery homecoming weekend to deliver one of their best performances of the season against the Duke Blue Devils. Cullen Harper, without question, played his best game in 2008, amassing almost 300 yards passing and finally completing a game without any interceptions. C.J. Spiller continued his standout play since returning from a hamstring injury, with his second 100-yard receiving day and another 70 yards on the ground. James Davis also added two short touchdown runs to help put the game out of reach. The defense held strong all game, rarely allowing Duke to venture into Clemson territory. Once Duke's standout quarterback Thaddeus Lewis left with an injury in the first quarter, it became clear that the Blue Devil offense would pose little to no threat to put points on the board. A special congratulation also goes out to Aaron Kelly, who became the all-time ACC receptions leader. Kelly, who had 10 catches on the day, has led a distinguished career at Clemson and the honor is highly deserved for such a classy and consistent player.
The win moved the Tigers to 2-2 under coach Dabo Swinney, and they must win their remaining two games to qualify for a bowl. Next up is a trip to Charlottesville to take on the Virginia Cavaliers for a, you guessed it, noon kickoff.
The win moved the Tigers to 2-2 under coach Dabo Swinney, and they must win their remaining two games to qualify for a bowl. Next up is a trip to Charlottesville to take on the Virginia Cavaliers for a, you guessed it, noon kickoff.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Noles Put Spear in Tigers
The Tigers fell back below 0.500 for the season with a loss to Florida State that finally put the nail in the coffin for an expected ACC championship. For the first time this season, the loss fell squarely on the defense, as they allowed FSU to rack up over 200 yards rushing and could not get off the field in the second half. Clemson actually came out firing to start the game and opened a quick 10-0 lead. Everything was clicking on offense and the pass rush was getting to FSU quarterback Christian Ponder. That quickly reversed when Cullen Harper threw his 72nd interception of the season (not really, but it seems like that) right to an FSU defensive lineman who returned it for a touchdown. From there, FSU's running game took off and their defense plugged up the line for the remainder of the afternoon. The loss means Clemson's only hope for a bowl game lies in winning their last three games. Next week is homecoming against a surprisingly frisky Duke team, followed by a trip to Virginia and the season-ender against South Carolina.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Tigers Finally Fry Eagles
Clemson crossed several major hurdles this past Saturday, as Dabo Swinney notched his first win as head coach and the Tigers beat Boston College for the first time since the Eagles joined the ACC four years ago. The offense came out clicking in the first half and the Tigers quickly built a 17-0 lead that easily could have been more. C.J. Spiller, returning from a hamstring injury, looked like a man possessed. He had big plays running, receiving, and on a kick return, despite missing some time after getting his bell rung on a sideline hit. Spiller's 105 reception yards set a school record for a running back.
In the second half, the Tigers tried their hardest to give the game away and suffer another excruciating loss to BC. Clemson started the implosion with a Cullen Harper interception to set up a quick touchdown. On the next possession, punter Jimmy Mayners looked like he was walking in quicksand and BC easily blocked the kick and returned it for a touchdown. The Eagles pulled ahead shortly thereafter, as another interception led to a quick touchdown drive that put the home team up 21-17. The scene looked all too familiar for Tiger fans. In past seasons, Clemson easily would have folded and lost the game. This time Swinney's team made a quick turnaround and scored on a touchdown pass to Aaron Kelly to retake the lead. The defense, which played stellar all game long, held BC on their final possession to secure the victory.
The win broke a three-game losing streak and returned Clemson's record to 0.500 on the season. It was definitely a step in the right direction, but turnovers and untimely penalties continue to put Clemson behind the proverbial 8-ball. The Tigers continue their road journey next week against Florida State, in the first non-Bowden Bowl in 9 years.
In the second half, the Tigers tried their hardest to give the game away and suffer another excruciating loss to BC. Clemson started the implosion with a Cullen Harper interception to set up a quick touchdown. On the next possession, punter Jimmy Mayners looked like he was walking in quicksand and BC easily blocked the kick and returned it for a touchdown. The Eagles pulled ahead shortly thereafter, as another interception led to a quick touchdown drive that put the home team up 21-17. The scene looked all too familiar for Tiger fans. In past seasons, Clemson easily would have folded and lost the game. This time Swinney's team made a quick turnaround and scored on a touchdown pass to Aaron Kelly to retake the lead. The defense, which played stellar all game long, held BC on their final possession to secure the victory.
The win broke a three-game losing streak and returned Clemson's record to 0.500 on the season. It was definitely a step in the right direction, but turnovers and untimely penalties continue to put Clemson behind the proverbial 8-ball. The Tigers continue their road journey next week against Florida State, in the first non-Bowden Bowl in 9 years.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Breaking Down the Candidates
No mention of McCain or Obama here. With another bye week in October (good job schedulers), we'll briefly discuss the eligible candidates for the Clemson head coaching position. Here goes:
1. Dabo Swinney, Interim Head Coach, Clemson
Pros
Has served on Clemson staff for the past six seasons; recruited many of the current players; will get a chance to rally the team over the remainder of this season.
Cons
No previous head coaching experience; not a "name" guy; reputation riding on this season's finish
2. Will Muschamp, Defensive Coordinator, Texas
Pros
In-your-face personality and superior motivator; has been known to bleed on players (seriously); has recruited in the South for both Texas and Auburn
Cons
No previous head coaching experience; will be a hot commodity in the offseason, especially if Texas wins National Championship
3. Lane Kiffin, ex-Oakland Raiders Head Coach
Pros
Served as offensive coordinator for high-powered USC teams; young and has a positive personality
Cons
Fired as Oakland head coach after 1+ seasons; very hot commodity on market; already mentioned for opening at Washington
4. Bill Cowher, ex-Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach
Pros
Super Bowl winning coach; greatest chin ever; lives in the South; would make all of my dreams come true
Cons
Just wishful thinking here. Clemson isn't going to pony up $5 million per year to get him.
That's just a few of the candidates in what is sure to be an extensive coaching search for Athletic Director Terry Don Phillips. The rumor mill is already circulating and things should begin to clear up following the season's conclusion on Thanksgiving weekend. It remains to be seen what other high-profile jobs will be open and what coaches will be available. Without a doubt, it is shaping up to be a wild offseason in Tiger Country.
1. Dabo Swinney, Interim Head Coach, Clemson
Pros
Has served on Clemson staff for the past six seasons; recruited many of the current players; will get a chance to rally the team over the remainder of this season.
Cons
No previous head coaching experience; not a "name" guy; reputation riding on this season's finish
2. Will Muschamp, Defensive Coordinator, Texas
Pros
In-your-face personality and superior motivator; has been known to bleed on players (seriously); has recruited in the South for both Texas and Auburn
Cons
No previous head coaching experience; will be a hot commodity in the offseason, especially if Texas wins National Championship
3. Lane Kiffin, ex-Oakland Raiders Head Coach
Pros
Served as offensive coordinator for high-powered USC teams; young and has a positive personality
Cons
Fired as Oakland head coach after 1+ seasons; very hot commodity on market; already mentioned for opening at Washington
4. Bill Cowher, ex-Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach
Pros
Super Bowl winning coach; greatest chin ever; lives in the South; would make all of my dreams come true
Cons
Just wishful thinking here. Clemson isn't going to pony up $5 million per year to get him.
That's just a few of the candidates in what is sure to be an extensive coaching search for Athletic Director Terry Don Phillips. The rumor mill is already circulating and things should begin to clear up following the season's conclusion on Thanksgiving weekend. It remains to be seen what other high-profile jobs will be open and what coaches will be available. Without a doubt, it is shaping up to be a wild offseason in Tiger Country.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
The More Things Change . . .
This past Saturday marked the first game in the post Tommy Bowden era for the Clemson Tigers. Interim head coach Dabo Sweeney promised big changes both on and off the field and delivered mixed results at best against visiting rival Georgia Tech.
The Different
Sweeney's biggest changes probably came before the game even started by instituting the "Tiger Walk," a player procession from the athletic training facility just outside the stadium over to the team locker room. Fans lined to streets to cheer on the team and hopefully unify the students/alumni and players. Before kickoff, Sweeney stood at the top of The Hill, kissed the rock, and charged down onto the field with his team in tow. It was easily the most fired up a coach has been at Clemson in the past ten years. It was refreshing to see the head coach act as a leader and not standing off to the side planning his family jet ski trip for later that afternoon. On offense, Clemson pulled just about every play out of the bag. There were deep passes, reverses, options, some I-formation, spread formation, etc. You have to at least give Sweeney and co-offensive coordinator Billy Napier credit for trying. The "Chosen One," redshirt freshman Willy Korn, also made his first start ever at quarterback.
The Same
Unfortunately, a much different philosophy delivered the same result, as Clemson dropped its third straight conference game. The offensive line is so atrocious it makes me want to puke. They continue to open zero holes for running backs and barely allow the quarterback time to turn his head around before having to evade the pass rush. The Korn era was over almost before it began, as he was knocked out of the game on just the third series with a bruised shoulder when a Tech defender slammed into his arm mid-throw. Even with Korn, the offense sputtered to make any first downs. Cullen Harper relieved Korn, and threw two second-half TDs to Aaron Kelly (who the coaches finally remembered they had). Every other drive seemingly ended in a turnover, of which Clemson committed six. The most inexplicable one had to be the reverse option pass thrown by senior receiver Tyler Grisham. Grishman was all but tackled when he made the unconscionable mistake of trying to complete the trick play anyway, only to toss the ball right to a Tech defender who returned it for a TD. The defense again kept the Tigers in the game despite all of the offensive miscues. However, Vic Koenning's refusal to blitz on 3rd down and long continues to result in back-breaking conversions and big plays for the opponent. Tech scored a touchdown on a 3rd an 18 when a receiver was left unguarded on the sideline in Koenning's zone defense and converted a 3rd and 16 with a simple run up an empty middle of the line that led to their other touchdown.
At the end of the day there was still optimism about the future of the program, and Sweeney will get at least five more games to prove he is the man for the job. He may have to win every one to convince the school administration of that. The Tigers will have another bye week to regroup and come up with a better offensive game plan before heading on the road to face Boston College and Florida Stage.
The Different
Sweeney's biggest changes probably came before the game even started by instituting the "Tiger Walk," a player procession from the athletic training facility just outside the stadium over to the team locker room. Fans lined to streets to cheer on the team and hopefully unify the students/alumni and players. Before kickoff, Sweeney stood at the top of The Hill, kissed the rock, and charged down onto the field with his team in tow. It was easily the most fired up a coach has been at Clemson in the past ten years. It was refreshing to see the head coach act as a leader and not standing off to the side planning his family jet ski trip for later that afternoon. On offense, Clemson pulled just about every play out of the bag. There were deep passes, reverses, options, some I-formation, spread formation, etc. You have to at least give Sweeney and co-offensive coordinator Billy Napier credit for trying. The "Chosen One," redshirt freshman Willy Korn, also made his first start ever at quarterback.
The Same
Unfortunately, a much different philosophy delivered the same result, as Clemson dropped its third straight conference game. The offensive line is so atrocious it makes me want to puke. They continue to open zero holes for running backs and barely allow the quarterback time to turn his head around before having to evade the pass rush. The Korn era was over almost before it began, as he was knocked out of the game on just the third series with a bruised shoulder when a Tech defender slammed into his arm mid-throw. Even with Korn, the offense sputtered to make any first downs. Cullen Harper relieved Korn, and threw two second-half TDs to Aaron Kelly (who the coaches finally remembered they had). Every other drive seemingly ended in a turnover, of which Clemson committed six. The most inexplicable one had to be the reverse option pass thrown by senior receiver Tyler Grisham. Grishman was all but tackled when he made the unconscionable mistake of trying to complete the trick play anyway, only to toss the ball right to a Tech defender who returned it for a TD. The defense again kept the Tigers in the game despite all of the offensive miscues. However, Vic Koenning's refusal to blitz on 3rd down and long continues to result in back-breaking conversions and big plays for the opponent. Tech scored a touchdown on a 3rd an 18 when a receiver was left unguarded on the sideline in Koenning's zone defense and converted a 3rd and 16 with a simple run up an empty middle of the line that led to their other touchdown.
At the end of the day there was still optimism about the future of the program, and Sweeney will get at least five more games to prove he is the man for the job. He may have to win every one to convince the school administration of that. The Tigers will have another bye week to regroup and come up with a better offensive game plan before heading on the road to face Boston College and Florida Stage.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Bonus Post: Bowden Fired!
In a special bonus post this week, I'm pleased to finally report the termination of head coach Tommy Bowden. Over the years, Bowden has seemingly had more lives than Rasputin, pulling out job-saving victories over highly ranked opponents time and again. One too many losses against clearly inferior teams finally proved to be his undoing, as Bowden and Clemson came to agreement to end their relationship during his 10th season. This morning, Athletic Director Terry Don Phillips issued an ultimatium that the Tigers win the ACC Atlantic Division. As soon as that was no longer mathematically possible, Bowden would be released from his contract. Tommy thought about this challenge and ultimately decided that it would be best to end his association with Clemson now under his own terms.
Make no mistake, Bowden has done a lot for Clemson. He took an ACC also-ran team and elevated into the occasional Top 25 appearance and qualified for a bowl game in all nine full seasons (Clemson refused all bowl invitations in 2005 after a season-ending brawl with rival South Carolina). Bowden also ran a relatively clean program and graduated players at one of the highest rates of all FCS schools. There is no doubt that Bowden leaves Clemson as a much better place than when he arrived. However, it was clear he had lost control of the team and comments from current players C.J. Spiller and Cullen Harper indicated as much.
For the remainder of the season, it will be up to former WR coach Dabo Sweeny to rally the team around Willy Korn and salvage a bowl appearance. Sweeny has been named the head coach on an interim basis, and it remains to be seen who the permanent replacement will be. Offensive coordinator Rob Spence was also (thankfully) relieved of his duties. For the first time in a while, there is optimism about the long-term future of Clemson football. For Tiger fans, October 13, 2008 will always be Bowden Liberation Day.
Make no mistake, Bowden has done a lot for Clemson. He took an ACC also-ran team and elevated into the occasional Top 25 appearance and qualified for a bowl game in all nine full seasons (Clemson refused all bowl invitations in 2005 after a season-ending brawl with rival South Carolina). Bowden also ran a relatively clean program and graduated players at one of the highest rates of all FCS schools. There is no doubt that Bowden leaves Clemson as a much better place than when he arrived. However, it was clear he had lost control of the team and comments from current players C.J. Spiller and Cullen Harper indicated as much.
For the remainder of the season, it will be up to former WR coach Dabo Sweeny to rally the team around Willy Korn and salvage a bowl appearance. Sweeny has been named the head coach on an interim basis, and it remains to be seen who the permanent replacement will be. Offensive coordinator Rob Spence was also (thankfully) relieved of his duties. For the first time in a while, there is optimism about the long-term future of Clemson football. For Tiger fans, October 13, 2008 will always be Bowden Liberation Day.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
The Last Straw
Well that sure sucked. For the second time this season, the Clemson Tigers laid an egg on national television. This time, it was one of the worst offensive performances in recent memory against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons on Thursday night. Despite posting negative yards after the first quarter (How is that possible?), the Tigers were actually in position to win the game after one good scoring drive put them up 7-6 going into the fourth quarter. After standing strong all game, the Clemson defense could not put the game away, allowing Wake to convert a 3rd and 24 from the shadow of its own goal line. The conversion changed the momentum of the game and sparked a drive that would lead to the go-ahead touchdown. Struggling Quarterback Cullen Harper (now his official name), again failed to come through at the end of the game, and the Tigers dropped their third contest of the season. The team is now a disgraceful 1-3 against FCS opponents after being a near-unanimous pick to win the ACC.
On the bright side, this might have finally been the straw that broke the camel's back regarding Tommy Bowden's career at Clemson. Based on the Internet chatter over the weekend, the Board of Trustees and Athletic Department may finally be fed up with Bowden's underachieving. Rumors of secret meetings to discuss Bowden's future were flying around Clemson, SC this weekend. Chat rooms and message boards were flooded with speculations of when Bowden and offensive coordinator Rob Spence would be terminated and who would be their respective replacements. In a last-ditch attempt to save his job, Bowden has named redshirt freshmen quarterback Willy Korn as the start for next week. Looks like it will be too little too late.
Next week's game kicks off at noon (woo hoo!) against conference foe Georgia Tech in Death Valley. At least Clemson still knows how to tailgate.
On the bright side, this might have finally been the straw that broke the camel's back regarding Tommy Bowden's career at Clemson. Based on the Internet chatter over the weekend, the Board of Trustees and Athletic Department may finally be fed up with Bowden's underachieving. Rumors of secret meetings to discuss Bowden's future were flying around Clemson, SC this weekend. Chat rooms and message boards were flooded with speculations of when Bowden and offensive coordinator Rob Spence would be terminated and who would be their respective replacements. In a last-ditch attempt to save his job, Bowden has named redshirt freshmen quarterback Willy Korn as the start for next week. Looks like it will be too little too late.
Next week's game kicks off at noon (woo hoo!) against conference foe Georgia Tech in Death Valley. At least Clemson still knows how to tailgate.
Monday, October 6, 2008
BCS Mess
Clemson is on bye this week so we're safe from a loss at least until Thursday against Wake Forest. Let's take this opportunity to discuss the current college football landscape.
Now six weeks into the season, it appears we're headed for another BCS mess. There have been a multitude of upsets, especially last week when powerhouses such as USC, Florida, and Georgia all went down. Currently, only one team (Oklahoma) remains in the top 5 in the polls from preseason. The BCS Championship Game is likely to come down to the survivors of the SEC and Big 12 conferences. These two conferences seem to be head and shoulders above the rest, with the Big 10 and Pac 10 as the second tier and the ACC and Big East looking like junior varsity squads in many games. The Big 12 winner will likely come from a group consisting of Oklahoma, Texas, and Missouri. One of those teams may be eliminated this week as OU and UT face off in the Red River Shootout in Dallas. The SEC seems to produce a "Gameday worthy" matchup every week. Still to come are Georga/Florida, LSU/Florida, Alabama/LSU, and a host of other tough conference games.
More than likely, no team from a BCS conference will finish unbeaten. The participants in the championship game, as with last year, will likely be determined by a series of computers that will deliver a controversial result. For all the complaints about the BCS, it is important to mention that it is still light years better than the old system that simply sent each conference winner to a predetermined bowl. At least now we get our No. 1 versus No. 2 game, even if those teams may not exactly deserve it.
Now six weeks into the season, it appears we're headed for another BCS mess. There have been a multitude of upsets, especially last week when powerhouses such as USC, Florida, and Georgia all went down. Currently, only one team (Oklahoma) remains in the top 5 in the polls from preseason. The BCS Championship Game is likely to come down to the survivors of the SEC and Big 12 conferences. These two conferences seem to be head and shoulders above the rest, with the Big 10 and Pac 10 as the second tier and the ACC and Big East looking like junior varsity squads in many games. The Big 12 winner will likely come from a group consisting of Oklahoma, Texas, and Missouri. One of those teams may be eliminated this week as OU and UT face off in the Red River Shootout in Dallas. The SEC seems to produce a "Gameday worthy" matchup every week. Still to come are Georga/Florida, LSU/Florida, Alabama/LSU, and a host of other tough conference games.
More than likely, no team from a BCS conference will finish unbeaten. The participants in the championship game, as with last year, will likely be determined by a series of computers that will deliver a controversial result. For all the complaints about the BCS, it is important to mention that it is still light years better than the old system that simply sent each conference winner to a predetermined bowl. At least now we get our No. 1 versus No. 2 game, even if those teams may not exactly deserve it.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
The Tommy Bowden Game
It really needs no explanation for any die hard Clemson fan. It was a "Tommy Bowden game." That is code for a game in which the Tigers had superior talent all across the field and were heavily favored to win the game but managed to make just enough mistakes to lose. It's happened so many times over the past 10 seasons that it isn't even surprising anymore. Clemson's loss to Maryland was the 7th time in Bowden's tenure that the Tigers have lost at home to an unranked opponent.
This week's mistakes were numerous, but here are just a few:
This week's mistakes were numerous, but here are just a few:
- Three turnovers, including two from struggling QB Cullen Harper
- A C.J. Spiller touchdown run negated by a holding penalty called on Aaron Kelly
- A failed 4th down with 5 minutes left when the offensive line failed to get a few inches of push on a QB sneak
- Allowing a 70-yard reverse to set up a Maryland touchdown
The 2nd half play calling was questionable at best. After piling up almost 200 rushing yards in the 1st half, Clemson ran the ball six times in the final two quarters. Six. Rob Spence simply has got to go as offensive coordinator, as the entire game plan exists of little more than handoffs and bubble screens. Tommy Bowden continues to let down Clemson fans and the Tigers appear headed for another trip to the Gator or Chick-fil-a Bowl. It is painfully obvious to everyone except for the athletic administration that Bowden has peaked as a coach. It will take a change at the top to get Tiger football over the final hurdle, and it appears that no one with the authority has the cojones to make that decision. At least they have a bye week to think about it.
Monday, September 22, 2008
Shutout
Clemson continued its September run of less than challenging home games by entertaining the South Carolina State Bulldogs, the second Football Championship Subdivison (FCS) team to visit Death Valley in the past three weeks. The Bulldogs stood little chance against the Tigers, as the game served as more of a scrimmage for the home team and a way for the visitors to show off their impressive marching band. Clemson's defense was outstanding all the way through. The secondary intercepted three passes, with Chris Clemons returning his for a touchdown to open the second half. The front seven stayed tough throughout the day and held SC State to net negative yards rushing and only 150 total yards.
The running game was clicking on all cylinders for the Tigers' star-studded backfield. James Davis rushed for 95 yards and three touchdowns on only 11 carries. C. J. Spiller added another 65 yards and continued to pick up tough yards inside. Even Jamie Harper and backup QB Willy Korn kept the offense moving in garbage time and put up the last two touchdowns. The only negative from the game was the sluggish performance of starting QB Cullen Harper. The senior continually overthrew open receivers down the middle of the field. Two of the errant throws led to interceptions by the Bulldogs, as Harper posted only 150 passing yards in his three quarters of work. If performances like this persist throughout conference play, coach Bowden will have to seriously consider pulling Harper in favor of redshirt freshman and anointed savior Korn.
Up next is a visit from Maryland to conclude the stretch of September home games. The Terrapins are coming off of a surprising defeat of the then-ranked Cal Bears and should give Clemson its best game since the season opener.
The running game was clicking on all cylinders for the Tigers' star-studded backfield. James Davis rushed for 95 yards and three touchdowns on only 11 carries. C. J. Spiller added another 65 yards and continued to pick up tough yards inside. Even Jamie Harper and backup QB Willy Korn kept the offense moving in garbage time and put up the last two touchdowns. The only negative from the game was the sluggish performance of starting QB Cullen Harper. The senior continually overthrew open receivers down the middle of the field. Two of the errant throws led to interceptions by the Bulldogs, as Harper posted only 150 passing yards in his three quarters of work. If performances like this persist throughout conference play, coach Bowden will have to seriously consider pulling Harper in favor of redshirt freshman and anointed savior Korn.
Up next is a visit from Maryland to conclude the stretch of September home games. The Terrapins are coming off of a surprising defeat of the then-ranked Cal Bears and should give Clemson its best game since the season opener.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
ACC Opener
Clemson opened its ACC schedule on Saturday by hosting the N.C. State Wolfpack. State, which had lost to South Carolina 34-0 to open the season, looked to be another easy victim for the Tigers. State posted an early lead after picking off Cullen Harper's pass on the first play of the game and returning it for a touchdown. The Tigers calmly mounted a touchdown drive on their next possession and assumed control of the game from there. The final score ended with a 27-9 Tiger victory. Notes from the game:
The Good
Wide receivers Aaron Kelly and Jacoby Ford played outstanding. Each player made several touch catches to keep drives alive for the offense. Kelly was the go-to-guy on third down conversions, breaking tackles and using sheer determination to get the first down. Ford scored the Tigers opening touchdown, driving two N.C. State defenders into the end zone from the two yard line for the score. Ford, along with RB C.J. Spiller showed a previously unseen willingness to go inside and take hits to get extra yardage, instead of dancing laterally and losing yards. The offensive line also finally asserted itself in the forth quarter, as the Tigers mounted a nine minute plus scoring drive to put the game away by running right down the middle of the field. The defense managed to not allow an offensive touchdown and harrassed State quarterbacks regularly throughout the game. Freshman Jarvis Jenkins, Daquan Bowers, and Stanley Hunter were particularly outstanding. The special teams also continues to be flawless, with strong kick coverage and return game. Placekicker Mark Buckholz also continued his perfect season, making two more field goals.
The Bad
The defensive play calling continues to be mind boggling. State repeatedly converted on third down and long as coordinator Vic Koening never blitzed and often rushed only three lineman. This gave the quarterback ample time to find an open receiver or run for the first down. The only other complaint could be the ACC for starting this game at noon in September. Conditions were extremely hot and humid with non-stop sunshine throughout the game. A large cloud that covered the sun briefly in the first half got the biggest applause from the home crowd. Schools simply should not be playing games in the South early in the afternoon in such temperatures. I'm amazed there aren't more cases of heat exhaustion and heat stress.
The Ugly
The officiating. Wow. Head referee Ron Cherry continues to be the bane of existence for good officiating everywhere. It's hard to say which was the worst call of the game. I would say it was the missed horse collar tackle on Jacoby Ford in the first quarter, but you could also argue it was the phantom personal foul called on Clemson early in the third. A touchdown catch by Jacoby Ford should also have been called down on the one yard line when his knee hit the turf. Not even instant replay helped Mr. Cherry get this call correct. A special shout out also goes to the N.C. State special teams which was far from special. The punter barely managed to outshank the placekicker and the Wolfpack squadered several scoring opportunities and repeatedly set up Clemson with good field postion.
The Good
Wide receivers Aaron Kelly and Jacoby Ford played outstanding. Each player made several touch catches to keep drives alive for the offense. Kelly was the go-to-guy on third down conversions, breaking tackles and using sheer determination to get the first down. Ford scored the Tigers opening touchdown, driving two N.C. State defenders into the end zone from the two yard line for the score. Ford, along with RB C.J. Spiller showed a previously unseen willingness to go inside and take hits to get extra yardage, instead of dancing laterally and losing yards. The offensive line also finally asserted itself in the forth quarter, as the Tigers mounted a nine minute plus scoring drive to put the game away by running right down the middle of the field. The defense managed to not allow an offensive touchdown and harrassed State quarterbacks regularly throughout the game. Freshman Jarvis Jenkins, Daquan Bowers, and Stanley Hunter were particularly outstanding. The special teams also continues to be flawless, with strong kick coverage and return game. Placekicker Mark Buckholz also continued his perfect season, making two more field goals.
The Bad
The defensive play calling continues to be mind boggling. State repeatedly converted on third down and long as coordinator Vic Koening never blitzed and often rushed only three lineman. This gave the quarterback ample time to find an open receiver or run for the first down. The only other complaint could be the ACC for starting this game at noon in September. Conditions were extremely hot and humid with non-stop sunshine throughout the game. A large cloud that covered the sun briefly in the first half got the biggest applause from the home crowd. Schools simply should not be playing games in the South early in the afternoon in such temperatures. I'm amazed there aren't more cases of heat exhaustion and heat stress.
The Ugly
The officiating. Wow. Head referee Ron Cherry continues to be the bane of existence for good officiating everywhere. It's hard to say which was the worst call of the game. I would say it was the missed horse collar tackle on Jacoby Ford in the first quarter, but you could also argue it was the phantom personal foul called on Clemson early in the third. A touchdown catch by Jacoby Ford should also have been called down on the one yard line when his knee hit the turf. Not even instant replay helped Mr. Cherry get this call correct. A special shout out also goes to the N.C. State special teams which was far from special. The punter barely managed to outshank the placekicker and the Wolfpack squadered several scoring opportunities and repeatedly set up Clemson with good field postion.
Monday, September 8, 2008
Death Valley Opener
This past Saturday, Clemson set out to redeem their season, starting with the home opener at Death Valley against the Citadel Bulldogs. The results could best be described as a mixed bag. On the positive side, QB Cullen Harper had time to throw and looked very sharp, completing 14 of 18 passes with a touchdown before heading to the bench in the 3rd quarter. Star running backs James Davis and C.J. Spiller also returned to form with over 100 yards and a touchdown for Davis and 75 yards and 3 touchdowns for Spiller. Freshman Jamie Harper also added a late touchdown, seeking to atone for his opening snap fumble to start the season.
On the downside, the defense still left much to be desired. They again gave up 400 yards of total offense, although much of it came against the second string late in an already decided game. The secondary was repeatedly torched for long gains by both Citadel quarterbacks and allowed over 300 passing yards. Only some timely interceptions by Michael Hamlin and some poor field goal kicking by the Bulldogs kept the score as low as it was.
Overall, it was still a game that Clemson can use as a building block to kick start their season. The Tigers will face their first ACC opponent this Saturday, as the N.C. State Wolfpack will visit Death Valley for a noon kickoff.
On the downside, the defense still left much to be desired. They again gave up 400 yards of total offense, although much of it came against the second string late in an already decided game. The secondary was repeatedly torched for long gains by both Citadel quarterbacks and allowed over 300 passing yards. Only some timely interceptions by Michael Hamlin and some poor field goal kicking by the Bulldogs kept the score as low as it was.
Overall, it was still a game that Clemson can use as a building block to kick start their season. The Tigers will face their first ACC opponent this Saturday, as the N.C. State Wolfpack will visit Death Valley for a noon kickoff.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Clemson Tigers: Out with a Thud
Saturday night was to mark the beginning of what was projected to be a memorable year for Clemson Tiger fans. Instead, it appeared to signify another season of mediocrity and unfulfilled potential. In front of a fairly even-split packed crowd at the Georgia Dome in downtown Atlanta, Clemson came out and laid a big fat egg against Nick Saban's Alabama Crimson Tide. The game was a highly anticipated duel between two programs seemingly on the rise. The Tide were entering Saban's second season and sported the consensus #1 recruiting class in the nation, led by stud receiver Julio Jones. Clemson was the near unanimous pick to win the ACC and returned loaded at the skill positions and also boasted a Top-5 recruiting class. The game was televised in prime time on ABC to a national audience, ESPN televised its Gameday program from Atlanta, and each team had a chance to start their season off on the right track with a solid non-conference win.
The game itself was far from the barn burner it was built up to be, as it more resembled the New England Patriots taking on the Decatur High Junior Varsity squad. 'Bama simply pushed the Tigers around on both sides of the ball and were clearly the more prepared team. On offense, the Tide rolled up over 250 yards rushing and QB John Parker Wilson was rarely under pressure. Alabama's defensive line seemed determined to host a party in the Clemson backfield on every play, plugging running holes and giving preseason All-ACC QB Cullen Harper barely time to get a grip on the ball before trying to dodge 300 lb lineman. Clemson's only offense came courtesy of a C.J. Spiller kickoff return that gave the Tigers a brief glimmer of hope. That hope was quickly squashed by more time consuming Alabama drives, as it was clear who was the superior team on the field.
For Clemson coach Tommy Bowden, it was the latest in a series of disappointing losses. Bowden has repeatedly squandered chances to win the ACC outright in the past few seasons, and although not a conference game, Saturday was not a good harbinger of things to come. Clemson appears headed to another 8-4 season and a mid-level bowl game. If there is any hope for a strong season, the offensive and defensive lines will have to gel quickly and start playing up to their talent level. Clemson needs to regroup and come out motivated to win every week, something this team has consistently failed to do under Bowden. The Tigers play a series of weak opponents throughout September, beginning with The Citadel this Saturday, that should give the team a chance to come together and rally. Otherwise, it will be another average year and a likely extension of Bowden's already too-rich contract for a program that seems to aspire to mediocrity.
I leave with this experience from post-game that best sums up Clemson's performance on Saturday. While sitting on a packed MARTA train car late that night a random Alabama fan started the following chant that will forever haunt my dreams:
Give me a 'B'
B!
Give me an 'A'
A!
Give me an 'M'
M!
Give me an 'A'
A!
What do we got?
Bama!
Who got Julio?
Bama!
Who got 12?
Bama!
Who's getting 13?
Bama!
Who beat Clemson?
Bama!
My friend asked me if we should chime back with some '1-2-3-4.' "No," I said, "Clemson doesn't deserve it today."
The game itself was far from the barn burner it was built up to be, as it more resembled the New England Patriots taking on the Decatur High Junior Varsity squad. 'Bama simply pushed the Tigers around on both sides of the ball and were clearly the more prepared team. On offense, the Tide rolled up over 250 yards rushing and QB John Parker Wilson was rarely under pressure. Alabama's defensive line seemed determined to host a party in the Clemson backfield on every play, plugging running holes and giving preseason All-ACC QB Cullen Harper barely time to get a grip on the ball before trying to dodge 300 lb lineman. Clemson's only offense came courtesy of a C.J. Spiller kickoff return that gave the Tigers a brief glimmer of hope. That hope was quickly squashed by more time consuming Alabama drives, as it was clear who was the superior team on the field.
For Clemson coach Tommy Bowden, it was the latest in a series of disappointing losses. Bowden has repeatedly squandered chances to win the ACC outright in the past few seasons, and although not a conference game, Saturday was not a good harbinger of things to come. Clemson appears headed to another 8-4 season and a mid-level bowl game. If there is any hope for a strong season, the offensive and defensive lines will have to gel quickly and start playing up to their talent level. Clemson needs to regroup and come out motivated to win every week, something this team has consistently failed to do under Bowden. The Tigers play a series of weak opponents throughout September, beginning with The Citadel this Saturday, that should give the team a chance to come together and rally. Otherwise, it will be another average year and a likely extension of Bowden's already too-rich contract for a program that seems to aspire to mediocrity.
I leave with this experience from post-game that best sums up Clemson's performance on Saturday. While sitting on a packed MARTA train car late that night a random Alabama fan started the following chant that will forever haunt my dreams:
Give me a 'B'
B!
Give me an 'A'
A!
Give me an 'M'
M!
Give me an 'A'
A!
What do we got?
Bama!
Who got Julio?
Bama!
Who got 12?
Bama!
Who's getting 13?
Bama!
Who beat Clemson?
Bama!
My friend asked me if we should chime back with some '1-2-3-4.' "No," I said, "Clemson doesn't deserve it today."
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