GAME BREAKDOWN
KEY MATCHUP: Clemson is coming off a 293-yard rushing performance and a similar result could be in the offing when the Tigers play at Wake Forest on Saturday. The Demon Deacons’ run defense is suspect at best, ranking 102nd in the FBS by allowing 189.6 yards per game, and the Tigers’ run game appears to be hitting its stride. Lead back Travis Etienne will be chasing his fourth consecutive 100-yard game while back-ups Tavien Feaster and Adam Choice combined for more than 100 yards last week against Syracuse. The Tigers’ offensive line also appears to be playing its best ball of the season; tackle Mitch Hyatt was named ACC Offensive Lineman of the Week and eight different linemen saw substantial playing time against Syracuse.
DRAFT SLANT
–DE Clelin Ferrell continues to post impressive performances despite having to compete for numbers alongside talented teammates such as Christian Wilkins, Austin Bryant and Dexter Lawrence. Ferrell was credited with a half-sack and a quarterback hurry last week against Syracuse, pushing his team-leading totals to seven tackles for loss and five sacks in Clemson’s 5-0 start. Ferrell ranks third nationally among active FBS players with 20.5 career sacks.
ROSTER REPORT:
–QB Kelly Bryant, who was demoted to second-team quarterback last week, announced his transfer from the program.
–QB Trevor Lawrence, who suffered a neck strain against Syracuse last week and missed the entire second half, is expected to return to the lineup this week at Wake Forest.
–CB Trayvon Mullen is listed as probable after suffering an injury against Syracuse last week.
–OT Noah DeHond is suffering from “a nerve issue” and may face surgery.
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