2011 Opponent Recap: Clemson

CLEM RECORD: 4-0 (1-0 ACC) (W 35-30 against #11 Florida State)

VT RECORD: 4-0 (W 30-10 against Marshall)

SCORE: (13) CLEM 23 – (11) VT 3

GAME SUMMARY: For the Hokies, this was a dual exhibit of missed opportunities and lack of execution. The offense was held to just 258 yards, and a conservative game plan resulted in constant pressure on quarterback Logan Thomas. Thomas was sacked four times. The following can be considered a microcosm of the Hokies’ offensive struggles throughout the game: down 3-0 in the second quarter, the Hokies advanced to Clemson’s 32-yard line, where the drive stalled. Instead of attempting a field goal or fourth down conversion, Tech punted. Touchback; a net gain of 12 yards. The following Clemson possession, Jayron Hosley was able to intercept Tajh Boyd and returned the ball to the Clemson 31. The Tech drive extinguished at the 7 yard line, and the Hokies were forced to settle for three. With around ten minutes remaining, down 17-3, Thomas was able to drive Tech to the Clemson 12-yard line, but the offense turned the ball over on downs. The Tigers responded with an 8-play, 88-yard touchdown drive to seal the victory.

LOCK IT IN THE LUNCHPAIL: Held without a touchdown at home for the first time since 1995, this game brought this squad’s early season concerns to the forefront. Although David Wilson was able to eclipse the 100-yard barrier (again), it was now apparent that Tech would need Logan Thomas to be more of a playmaker in order for the Hokies to remain in contention for another ACC championship. The athleticism of Clemson’s front seven highlighted the deficiencies along Tech’s offensive line. Special teams blunders cost the defense valuable field position all game (Scott Demler averaged a lowly 29.4 yards per punt). There were, however, some silver linings to build upon. As stated before, the Hokies were in position many times to put points on the board, so the opportunities were there. The offense managed a ten minute advantage in time of possession. And the defense kept the team within striking distance until the 54-minute mark, holding Boyd to 40% passing. It was a tough loss, yes, but not impossible to overcome.

CLEM SEASON: 9-3 (6-2 ACC), 1st ACC Atlantic.

SEASON SUMMARY*:After a relatively smooth 43-19 season-opening victory, over Troy, Clemson struggle mightily against Wofford’s triple-option attack. Heading into the fourth quarter, the Tigers clung to a one-point lead, but survived 35-27. That unexpected anxiety against an FCS foe was followed by a grueling stretch: Auburn, Florida State, and Virginia Tech. Clemson was able to avenge last year’s 27-24 overtime loss to eventual national champion Auburn, rallying to win 38-24 after falling behind 21-7 midway through the second quarter. The following week, the Tigers won a wild game against a Florida State missing starting quarterback E.J. Manuel, never relinquishing the lead after Sammy Watkins’ first touchdown made the score 7-3. Clemson’s victory over Virginia Tech vaulted the Tigers to a #8 ranking.

OFFENSIVE MVP*: QB Tajh Boyd. 61% - 1429 YD – 16 TTD.

Boyd was the maestro of an explosive offense that in their first five game failed to score more than 35 points once. He was truly exceptional against Auburn, passing for 386 yards and four touchdowns as Clemson ended the nation’s longest winning streak.

DEFENSIVE MVP*: DE Andre Branch. 32 TK – 5 SK.

Branch was an absolute terror against Virginia Tech, sacking Logan Thomas four times. He recorded double-digit tackles against both VT and Wofford.

POSTSEASON: ACC Championship Game vs Virginia Tech 11-1 (7-1 ACC).

*Up to 10/1/2011. More on Clemson’s season to come.

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