Instant Halftime Analysis: Clemson 24, BC 21

Brandon Ford's 4 yd TD right before halftime.

by David Hood - Senior Writer - Sat Sep 29 17:14:21 GMT-04:00 2012

CHESTNUT HILL, MA - Instant Halftime Analysis: Clemson 24, Boston College 21

What went right: Clemson’s offense had a three-and-out on the first drive, but scored on its next three possessions. Chad MorrisChad Morris
Offensive Coordinator / QBs
View Full Profile did a fantastic job of mixing up the play-calling, mixing in the run with Andre EllingtonAndre Ellington
RS Sr. Running Back
#23 5-10, 195
Moncks Corner, SC
View Full Profile , keepers by quarterback Tajh BoydTajh Boyd
RS Jr. Quarterback
#10 6-1, 225
Hampton, VA
View Full Profile , and plays with the short to intermediate passing game.

Chandler CatanzaroChandler Catanzaro
RS Jr. Punter / Kicker
#39 6-2, 195
Greenville, SC
View Full Profile hit a first quarter field goal, his 16th consecutive dating back to last season.

After a rocky start, the defense posted two consecutive three-and-outs, allowing Boston College minus-2 yards on the drives.

After Boston College took a 21-17 lead in the second quarter, the Clemson offense responded with a crucial touchdown drive. The drive covered 76 yards and lasted 13 plays. The offensive line opened several big holes for Ellington on the drive.

What went wrong: Clemson’s defense looked like the Clemson defense of a week ago on Boston College’s first drive, allowing the Eagles to go 84 yards and score.

Shortly after stopping Boston College on a fourth down play near midfield, Morris reached into his bag of tricks for a flea-flicker type of play, but Boyd threw into double coverage and it was intercepted.

Corner Bashaud BreelandBashaud Breeland
RS So. Cornerback
#17 6-0, 195
Allendale, SC
View Full Profile fell on long second quarter pass – the play covered 49 yards and set up the second Boston College score. The drive covered 92 yards.

Boston College converted a fourth down from the Clemson 31-yard line late in the second quarter, with Chase Rettig tossing a 31-yard scoring strike to Alex Amidon. The drive got off to a bad start for Clemson when the Eagles ran a trick play, with wide receiver Bobby Swigert tossing a 28-yard pass to Spiffy Evans.

Turning Point of the Half:Boyd threw a 4-yard TD pass to tight end Brandon FordBrandon Ford
Gr. Tight End
#80 6-4, 240
Wando, SC
View Full Profile with 23 seconds left in the half, taking the momentum back from Boston College and giving the Tigers a 24-21 halftime lead.