Keys to the game for Clemson's matchup with Virginia

Respect Anthony Colandrea's legs

In the past, Virginia’s quarterback, Anthony Colandrea,  hasn’t been known for his running capabilities. To be fair, Klubnik was in the same boat, but we’ve seen what he can do with grass in front of him.

Colandrea gashed Louisville with the read option. On the first drive to the game, he had back-to-back big gainers as they marched down the field. He finished with 84 yards on 15 carries. Clemson must be disciplined against Virginia's rushing game for that particular reason.

He hasn’t done it much, but the Colandrea has now shown everyone in the ACC what could happen if he got loose from pocket on passing plays. Colandrea will try to pass first; he doesn’t want to run. But knowing that he has the capability means that Clemson needs to be careful.

Pressuring him might not be the best tactic, as he became more efficient under pressure against Louisville. He was under pressure 40 percent of his drop-back passes but his completion percentage rose from 57.8 percent to 70 percent he had less time to throw the ball.

Still, the Cardinals got to him three times, so as a defense, you can’t give up the potential for a sack. The key is to bring pressure but keep him contained simultaneously, which is easier said than done. Don’t let him escape the pocket, and don’t give him much time to throw.