Clemson Football 2017 Opponent Preview: Auburn
As the summer comes to a close and we enter fall camp, Rubbing The Rock will be taking a look at the Clemson Football program’s 2017 schedule. This edition features, the Tigers’ week 2 opponent, Auburn.
Under Dabo Swinney, the Clemson football program has been nearly perfect against Auburn, with the one loss coming during the Tigers fateful 2010 National Championship season. Since that day, Clemson has beaten Auburn in each of their past three contests. This seasons matchup promises to be a nail biter as both Clemson and Auburn return a heap of talent on both sides of the ball.
Current Head Coach: Gus Malzahn (5th year)
Overall Record in 2016: 8-5
Gus Malzahn has built up equity with the Auburn faithful for masterminding the Tigers high-powered offense during the 2010 National Title season; and leading them back to the National Championship in his first season as head coach on the plains in 2013. Despite the fact that Auburn hasn’t won more than 8+ games in a season since 2013, Malzahn’s job appears to be safe.
Statistical leaders in 2016:
Passing – Sean White (RJr), 63.9 completion percentage, 1,679 yards and 9 touchdowns.
Rushing – Kamryn Pettway (Jr), 209 attempts, 1,224 yards and 7 touchdowns.
Receiving – Tony Stevens (Graduated), 31 receptions, 487 yards and 3 touchdowns.
Tackles – Tray Mattews (Jr), 76 total tackles, 43 solo.
Interceptions – Joshua Holsey (NFL), 3.
Sacks – Carl Lawson (NFL), 9.
Key Players in 2017
Offense – Kamryn Pettway. During a stellar sophomore season, Pettway showcased his ability to demoralize a defense with his size and physicality. Coming into 2017, Baylor transfer, Jarrett Stidham has received his fair share of attention and for good reason. Auburn has struggled to find consistency at quarterback since the days of Nick Marshall. That being said, Pettway is the heart and soul of this offense. The Tigers talented offensive line feeds off of his bruising runs.
Defense – Marlon Davidson. Following the 2016 season, Auburn’s defensive line took a huge hit with Carl Lawson and Montravious Adams moving on to the NFL. Sophomore defensive end, Marlon Davidson will help ease the pain of those losses. At 6-foot-3, 282 pounds, Davidson has a rare blend of strength and speed that makes him a nightmare for opposing offensive lineman. Auburn will need Davidson to get to the quarterback early and often if he hopes to replace the above-mentioned Lawson.
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Clemson will have their hands full with Auburn in 2017. There are a few factors at play in this matchup. First and most importantly, there is a possibility that both Clemson and Auburn will be trotting out inexperienced quarterbacks. With the talent that both programs have on defense, points will be difficult to come by.
Secondly, the all important battle in the trenches. Auburn, similar to Clemson, has a wealth of talent and experience along the offensive line. Neither team has an edge in that department, however, Clemson has a definitive edge along the defensive line. The Tigers of South Carolina return arguably the best two defensive tackles in the country in Christian Wilkins and Dexter Lawrence. Defensive ends, Austin Bryant and Clelin Ferrell round out Clemson’s front four. The battle between Auburn’s big boys and Clemson’s defensive line may decide the game.
Next: Top 5 offensive players entering 2017
Lastly, Clemson gets Auburn at home this time around. It is no secret that Memorial stadium is one of the most hostile home environments in all of College Football. Death Valley, South Carolina will be bursting at the seams in this one, making it difficult for Auburn to hear themselves think. With this contest being so early in the season, Clemson’s rowdy home crowd will play a huge role in the outcome of this one.