ACC Football: 5 most important non-conference games in 2017
3. Clemson vs. Auburn, Sept. 9
The defending National Champion Clemson Tigers host the Auburn Tigers next season in Week 2. Clemson got a 19-13 road victory last season behind some stout defensive play. This time around there are some changes at quarterback on both sides.
Clemson will be without a lot of weapons on offense, including a quarterback transition. They still return five starters, led by wide receiver Deon Cain. Recruiting should fill the void with top 20 recruiting classes the past few seasons.
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The defense returns seven starters with a few holes in the linebacking core and secondary. Seeing as the Tigers defense has been one of best in the ACC, it’s hard to see the defense losing a step. Especially with defensive end Christian Wilkins playing on the edge.
Auburn has a tough rushing attack returning, which averaged 271.3 rushing yards per game in 2016. With both of their running backs returning, Auburn should serve as a good challenge for Clemson.
Quarterbacks Kelly Bryant, Hunter Johnson and Zerrick Cooper will all challenge for the starting spot this fall. Whoever comes out on top has an opportunity to pick up where Deshaun Watson before leaving for the NFL Draft.