This game ended up being quite similar to the 2015 game vs
Sep 9, 2018, 10:20 AM
Notre Dame. In both games we were up 2 or more scores basically the entire game before the opponent scored in the final minute to bring them within 2 points with an opportunity to get a 2 point conversion. In both games our defense stepped up on the 2 point conversion. Both games had rain (although the the ND game was much worse in that regard). Both games had Clemson, in the end, outgained by around 100 yards, even though the Clemson defenses were great for the first 3 quarters or so. Both teams opposing starting QBs looked incredible (Deshone Kizer in 2015) both running and throwing the football.
There were a few key differences as well (venue, opponent's poll position), but overall it was a very strange game. I don't think this game will end up being viewed in the same manner as the ND game because we are now expected by the media to always take care of business against non-playoff caliber teams, but these types of games happen every year to every team, and any time you play on the road in a very difficult road environment, you have to be happy to leave with the win.
With that said, both the offense and defense have a lot of work to do. Etienne needs a lot more than 8 carries and total 11 touches. Higgins needs to be getting more than 3 catches. We need to establish star players on offense so that our overall team has confidence that those players are going to make the plays necessary to win. I actually think the team has that confidence in Bryant. I'm not sure they have that same confidence in Lawrence yet, and it will be interesting to see if the coaches give him the opportunity.