Instant Analysis: Clemson 23, Virginia Tech 3 Final |
What went right:
The Tigers came up with a tombstone win, getting clutch plays on offense and a monster effort from the defense. Clemson quarterback
Tajh BoydTajh Boyd RS So. Quarterback #10 6-1, 225 Hampton, VA View Full Profile
hit
Dwayne AllenDwayne Allen RS Jr. Tight End #83 6-3, 255 Fayetteville, NC View Full Profile
on a long pass play for one touchdown early in the third quarter, and the defense took over from there. Senior defensive end
Andre BranchAndre Branch RS Sr. Defensive End #40 6-5, 260 Richmond, VA View Full Profile
, who is from Richmond, played well in front of family and friends, almost single-handedly taking the game over. Boyd wasn’t sharp, but made the big throws when he had to, and freshman
Mike BellamyMike Bellamy Fr. Running Back #5 5-10, 175 Nocatee, FL View Full Profile
had a 31-yard touchdown run late to seal the victory. What went wrong: The offense failed to really take advantage of the turnover early in the game, and Boyd threw his first interception in 141 chances, a turnover that led to Virginia Tech’s three points. Boyd has also had open receivers, but his accuracy looks off in the windy and cold conditions. Turning Point of the Game :The Hokies had the ball at the Clemson two-yard line, poised for a go-ahead touchdown, but the Clemson defense stiffened and held the Hokies to a field goal. On the ensuing possession, Clemson faced a 3rd-and-8 at the Tech 34-yard line, and Boyd found Watkins over the middle on a 23-yard pass for a first down at the Tech 11-yard line. Clemson scored later in the drive. Later in the game, Bellamy scored on his long run to effectively end Virginia Tech’s chances. Stat of the Game: The Tigers held the vaunted Virginia Tech rushing game in check for most of the game.
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