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Clemson Football: 3 takeaways from close win over Boston College

By Dante Pryor

Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney joins players for the Walk of Champions before the game with NC State University at Carter-Finley Stadium in Raleigh, N.C., Saturday, September 25, 2021.Ncaa Football Clemson At Nc State
Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney joins players for the Walk of Champions before the game with NC State University at Carter-Finley Stadium in Raleigh, N.C., Saturday, September 25, 2021.Ncaa Football Clemson At Nc State /
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Oct 2, 2021; Clemson, South Carolina, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback D.J. Uiagalelei (5) is tackled by Boston College Eagles defensive tackle Cam Horsley (96) during the second quarter at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hagy-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 2, 2021; Clemson, South Carolina, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback D.J. Uiagalelei (5) is tackled by Boston College Eagles defensive tackle Cam Horsley (96) during the second quarter at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hagy-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Clemson played better in the trenches

The Tigers’ offense has had a myriad of issues. Injuries to offensive lineman John Williams and running back Will Shipley have affected the scheme this season. D.J. Uiagalelei has struggled with accuracy all season.

However, no part of the offense has struggled more than Clemson’s offensive line. The Georgia Bulldogs dominated the offensive line, and they never really recovered. The Tigers’ run blocking was better against Georgia Tech and improved even more tonight.

Kobe Pace led Clemson in rushing tonight with over 100 yards, their first season against significant competition. However, the Tigers have had issues protecting Uiagalelei. “D.J. U” is hard to sack because of his size, but he’s been pressured all season.

The pressure has made Uiagalelei throw the ball with defenders falling off of him most of the season.

Tonight, the line played better. The pass blocking was not great in spots, but they protected Uiagalelei better tonight. Boston College sacked Uiagalelei just once tonight, which is an improvement.

However, this group should be much better. Because they have underperformed, Clemson has not been able to lean on the running game and throw off of play-action, making things easier for D.J. U.

dark. Next. Projected AP Top 25 for Week 6

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