Clemson methodically beats Wake Forest: Final Score, Stats & Analysis
Clemson methodically takes care of Wake Forest to open the season
The No. 1-ranked Clemson Tigers stepped into Winston-Salem, N.C. and methodically put away the Wake Forest Demon Deacons to open up the 2020 season.
The Tigers jumped out to a quick lead and never looked back, ultimately coming away with a 37-13 victory.
It wasn’t the most exciting game and there is plenty to learn from moving forward for Clemson, but in the end a win is a win.
Stat Leaders & Analysis from Clemson’s victory over Wake Forest
Passing: Trevor Lawrence 22-of-28 for 351 yards and 1 TD.
Rushing: Travis Etienne 17 carries for 102 yards at 1 TD; Lawrence 2 rushing TDs; Darien Rencher 7 carries for 34 yards.
Receiving: Amari Rodgers 5 receptions for 90 yards; Braden Galloway 5 receptions for 60 yards.
Analysis:
Trevor Lawrence and Travis Etienne both played really crisp games in short outings.
It’s clear that the Tigers wanted to see what they had out of their starters and then begin developing depth. It wasn’t the prettiest game ever and there were plenty of frustrating moments as we watched some of the youngsters- and even veterans- make mistakes, but that’s bound to happen in a season-opener.
As far as the ‘good,’ you have to look at Myles Murphy and Bryan Bresee. Both of those freshmen, in particular Murphy, are absolute monsters. The offense looked really good with Lawrence at the helm and there’s no doubt that this group has the chance to be extremely explosive throughout the season. In addition, you’ve got to give B.T. Potter credit. He hit on all of his field goal attempts and looked very confident as a place-kicker.
As far as areas of improvement are concerned, I believe you’ve got to see the secondary improve. There were far too many wide open Wake Forest wide receivers against both the starters and the reserves. That has to be cleaned up, although you can give some slack considering two starting cornerbacks in Derion Kendrick and Mario Goodrich were both out.
Clemson vs. Wake Forest: Lots of good and bad. dark. Next
It wasn’t the best game we’ve ever seen from Clemson football, but it was a win and the outcome was never in doubt. Ultimately, the Tigers improved to 1-0 and will now move on to the next one as they continue to make their trek towards a hopeful National Championship.