Instant Halftime Analysis: Georgia Tech 9, Clemson 3

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ATLANTA, GA – The news out of Atlanta hasn’t favored the Tigers on a cold and breezy day in Bobby Dodd, but Clemson is still within striking distance.

Neither team has scored an offensive touchdown, but Tech returned a Cole StoudtCole Stoudt
Sr. Quarterback
#18 6-4, 231
Dublin, OH
View Full Profile interception 85 yards for a touchdown as Tech leads 9-3.

Why was Stoudt in the game? Freshman quarterback Deshaun was having a good day leading the offense, but a first quarter rush ended up with Watson clutching his left leg. He left to go to the locker room and hasn’t returned.

Clemson stopped Tech’s second drive and had driven inside the Tech 30 on the legs of Watson – and then the worst-case scenario popped up for the Tigers. Watson injured his leg on a running play and was replaced by Stoudt. Two plays later Stoudt threw an ill-advised pass that was picked off by Tech’s Jamal Golden and returned 85 yards for the score. The snap on the extra point try was bobbled, and Tech led 6-3.

Player of the half:Clemson’s defense. The Jackets have had minimal success on the ground, but have had a few pass plays on third down. However, the defense forced an early turnover that led to Clemson’s only points and has four tackles for loss.

Stat of the half: Watson had seven carries for 40 yards before his injury, and the Tigers have just one first down since he left. Overall, Tech has 111 total yards, and Clemson has just 111. The difference is the interception.

What’s working for the Tigers:Defensively, it looks good. Without Watson on offense, it doesn’t look good at all.

What’s not working for the Tigers:The passing game. Stoudt is just 1-for-5 for four yards and the pick six.

What the Tigers need to do to win: Find an offense. The defense and special teams are playing well enough to win, but Stoudt and the offense have to find some kind of rhythm against a bad Tech defense.

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