1. Energy
Throughout September, the Tigers have looked slow on both sides of the ball and don’t seem to care when things don’t go their way. Dabo Swinney has received some heat for hiring former players to the coaching staff, but there’s several guys on the sideline who know what it takes to compete for National Championships including Ben Boulware, Tyrone Crowder, and Nolan Turner. Look to see if they can fire up this team.
2. Tristan Smith
Transfer wide receiver, Tristan Smith, has had only a few snaps this season, but he’s showing some promise. Smith had a big reception against Syracuse and looked earnest fighting for several yards after the catch. According to The Clemson Insider, Garrett Riley said, “I think he’s starting to earn more trust just from a consistency level.” Keep an eye out to see if Smith will get the chance to impress again.
3. Chemistry
On The College Gameday Podcast, Rece Davis said that Clemson is playing “like a team that doesn’t really like each other.” Clemson must prove him wrong. Theres really nothing more to be said.
4. Quarterback Reads and Play Calling
There’s no doubt that Clemson fans have been scratching their heads at the offensive play calling. At times, it seems like the Swinney and Riley don’t really trust this offense. Cade Klubnick, however, has struggled to make the right reads. Confidence breeds consistency, so watch to see if they can get it right this week.
5. Tackling
The Tigers’ defense has struggled mightily, particularly with open field tackling. After the Allen hire and with all the projected talent on defense, hopes were high for this season, but so far the defense has looked even worse than when Wes Goodwin was calling plays. Look for the Tigers to improve against Bill Belicheck’s struggling offense in week 6.