Clemson Football: Scouting report vs. Boston College
The Clemson football program has a six game winning streak over Boston College dating back to 2011. Here’s the factors that will either extend or break that streak this weekend.
When? September 23, 2017, 3:30 p.m. ET
Where? Clemson Memorial Stadium (Death Valley)
2016 Record: 7-6 (2-6 ACC)
Head Coach: Steve Addazio (5th year)
Betting line: -32 Clemson
Returning starters: 15 total, 8 offensive, 7 defensive
With Deshaun Watson under center, Clemson football steamrolled Boston College, 56-10 in 2016. While Watson is gone, among many other former Tigers, this Clemson team appears every bit as dominant as last season.
Strengths:
Boston College’s biggest strength is senior defensive end, Harold Landry. The Eagles defender is one of the top prospects for the upcoming 2018 NFL draft and for good reason. Standing 6-foot-3, 255 pounds, Landry has a lightening quick first step and a wide array of pass rushing moves. He is also disruptive against the run, which is rare among elite pass rushers.
Landry has the talent to throw off Clemson’s entire game-plan. Unfortunately for the Eagles, they do not have many impact players outside of him. Through this point in the season, Boston College has struggled in all facets of the game. Coming into the season this Eagles defense was supposed to be a bright spot. At the moment, they rank 96th in total defense, 106th in scoring defense and 126th in rushing defense.
The one area where this defense has played well is the secondary. Boston College ranks 26th in passing defense, allowing just 150 yards per game. The Eagles must force Clemson into 3rd and long situations to have a shot in this on.
Weaknesses
The biggest weakness for Boston College against Clemson is their inability to create explosive plays. The Eagles have only produced 10 plays of 20+ yards on the season.
In order to defeat Clemson, you must create chunk plays. Tigers’ defensive coordinator, Brent Venables orchestrates an attacking, physical defense. The only way to stop Venables from bringing the blitz is to burn him deep. In the two games that Clemson lost over the past two seasons (Alabama and Pittsburgh), they gave up multiple explosive touchdowns.
Boston College must get creative in order to move the ball. Clemson’s front seven is as good as it’s ever been under Dabo Swinney. Eagles quarterback, Anthony Brown will not have the luxury of time when he drops back to pass; and running the football simply isn’t an option.
Next: 3 storylines to watch vs. Boston College
On the defensive side of the ball, it’s important that Boston College contain Kelly Bryant on the ground. Once he gains momentum with his legs this Tigers’ offense is difficult to stop. Bryant’s ability to run the ball opens up play action and double moves down the field.