GAME BREAKDOWN
KEY MATCHUP: Clemson’s defensive front will be the unit on the spot once again this week as the Tigers face one of the nation’s most prolific option rushing attacks in Georgia Tech. Since Paul Johnson took over at Georgia Tech in 2008, the Yellow Jackets have consistently ranked among the national rushing leaders and gave the Clemson defense fits for several years early in Swinney’s tenure. But defensive coordinator Brent Venables, who joined the staff in 2012, has turned the Tigers’ fortunes against Georgia Tech in recent years, limiting Johnson’s offense to an average of just 121 yards over the last three games — all Clemson victories. With four NFL-bound players on the Tigers’ defensive front, a similar result could unfold in Atlanta this Saturday. Clemson’s rush defense ranks ninth nationally, allowing on 2.09 yards per attempt.
DRAFT SLANT
–DE Clelin Ferrell continues to see his draft stock soar. Ferrell had a sack in the Tigers’ season-opening game against Furman, then followed that up with two sacks in each of the last two games, becoming the first Clemson player since Vic Beasley to have two sacks in consecutive games. His five total sacks this season is tied for first in the FBS this season.
ROSTER REPORT:
–QB Kelly Bryant suffered a chest bruise last week against Georgia Southern, but is expected to start this week at Georgia Tech.
–DT Jordan Williams, who suffered a knee injury in Clemson’s first game, remains questionable.
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