Instant Analysis: No. 3 Clemson 24, Boston College 14

Boyd hit on 30-of-44 passes for 334 yards and a touchdown

by Nikki Hood - Staff Writer - Sat Oct 12 19:09:29 GMT-04:00 2013

Clemson – It definitely wasn’t pretty, but Clemson did what the No. 3 team in the nation is supposed to do.

They beat an unranked opponent by double digits.

In what many considered a trap game, Clemson (6-0, 4-0 ACC) defeated Boston College (3-3, 1-2) 24-14 in Death Valley.

It was over when: With 12:42 to play in the game and the Tigers only up three points, linebacker Tony StewardTony Steward
Jr. Linebacker
#7 6-0, 235
Hastings, FL
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RS Jr. Defensive End
#3 6-3, 225
Adairsville, GA
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Game ball goes to: There is no doubt that the Leather Helmet presented to the game’s most valuable player goes to Beasley. Whenever the Tigers need a critical play on defense, it’s Beasley that steps up. Beasley was credited with five tackles, two tackles for loss, one sack, one pass break-up and one touchdown. It doesn’t get much better than that for a defensive end.

Stat of the game: Boston College brought the nation’s leading rusher in Andre Williams to Death Valley; however, the stout Clemson defense held the Eagles to just 94 yards rushing and Williams to just 70 yards.

What it means for Clemson: The Clemson Tigers can finally look ahead to the game with Florida State. The game next weekend still holds its importance after the Tigers narrowly escape Boston College’s upset bid. Can the Tigers get things clicking offensively again? Can the defense continue its success against a hot quarterback in Jameis Winston? Only time will tell.

What it means for Boston College: The Eagles did everything they could to upset the Tigers Saturday night, but unfortunately Clemson’s defense was just too much for the Eagles to handle. Boston College is now past the most difficult part of its schedule after playing Clemson and Florida State and they should find some success against the rest of the conference.