Clemson Football 2017 Opponent Preview: Georgia Tech
As we move through fall camp, Rubbing The Rock will be taking a look at the Clemson Football program’s 2017 schedule. This edition features, the Tigers’ week 8 opponent, Georgia Tech.
Regardless of the talent that they field, Georgia Tech is consistently one of the toughest games on Clemson’s schedule. The Yellow Jackets employ a triple option attack, which has stood the test of time as one of the most efficient offensive systems. It requires quick decision making by the quarterback and sound blocking. If ran correctly it can be a headache for opposing defenses. It may not produce points by the bundle, however, Georgia Tech is able to control the tempo of the game and keep their defense fresh.
Current Head Coach: Paul Johnson (10th year)
Overall Record in 2016: 9-4
Paul Johnson is undoubtedly the most accomplished coach in the Coastal division at the moment. Johnson has four division titles to his name and he is the only head coach in the Coastal division with an ACC Championship.
There are few Power five programs that run the triple option outside of the academy’s, Navy, Army, Air Force. Johnson has stuck to his convictions and proven that you can win at the highest level running this ancient offense.
Statistical leaders in 2016:
Passing – Justin Thomas (Sr), 53.4 completion percentage, 1,559 yards and 8 touchdowns.
Rushing – Dedrick Mills (Fr), 152 attempts, 771 yards and 12 touchdowns.
Receiving – Clinton Lynch (So), 16 receptions, 490 yards and 6 touchdowns.
Tackles – Corey Griffin (Jr), 82 total tackles, 62 solo.
Interceptions – Lance Austin (Jr), 3.
Sacks – Patrick Gamble (Sr), 7.5.
Must Read: Feaster-Bryant makes an almost unstoppable backfield
Key players in 2016:
Offensively –
This Tech offense is heavily predicated on running the football. With veteran quarterback Justin Thomas not in the program anymore, the onus falls on Dedrick Mills to carry this offense. Mills was impressive during his freshman season, leading Tech in rushing with nearly 800 yards on the ground.
One other Tech player to keep an eye on this season is Marcus Marshall. With Justin Thomas’ production gone, the Yellow Jackets will need another rushing threat. While Marshall is also a running back, he is the next best weapon that Tech has.
Defensively –
Georgia Tech’s defense does not need to be elite for them to reach an ACC Championship. The genius behind Johnson’s triple option attack is ball control. By constantly running the ball, Tech is chewing up the clock and limiting the amount of possessions that the opponent gets per game. The most important player on this Tech defense in 2017 is senior defensive back, Corey Griffin. He is not only the best tackler on the team, but, he is their best pass defender as well. Griffin is the heart of this Yellow Jackets defense.
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I believe Clemson will beat Georgia Tech handily this fall. With the Yellow Jackets looking to run the football, they must win at the point of attack. I am not sure that any of Clemson’s opponents will be able to dictate the line of scrimmage in 2017. The Tigers dominant front seven will make it difficult for Tech to get any push up front. From there Georgia Tech will be forced into passing situations, which is far from their strong suit. I expect this Clemson defense to smother the Yellow Jackets.
The triple option is odd in the fact that it’s difficult to stop once it gets going, however, it is nearly impossible to jump-start if the defense sticks to their assignment. I don’t see how Tech will be able to defeat the Tigers if they cannot muster more than 14 points.