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Keys to the game for Clemson football vs Georgia

By Austin Farmer

Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik (2) and teammates run down the hill before the Spring football game in Clemson, S.C. Saturday, April 6, 2024.
Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik (2) and teammates run down the hill before the Spring football game in Clemson, S.C. Saturday, April 6, 2024. / Ken Ruinard / staff / USA TODAY NETWORK
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There are only a few more days until Clemson suits up for the first game of the season. All eyes will be on the Tigers as the long-awaited game against Georgia is one of the few Power Four matchups this week. It's also the only top-15 matchup of the day.

The Bulldogs are the No. 1 team in the nation for a reason. They return one of the most effective quarterbacks in the country. Carson Beck threw for 3,941 yards and 24 touchdowns last season. He's behind one of (if not the best) offensive lines in college football and has former blue-chip recruits surrounding him.

On defense, Georgia lost much more production. However, it has as much talent as the offense to fill in the gaps. Last season, the Bulldogs ranked No. 5 in the country in opponents points per game, No. 6 in yards, No. 1 in third-down conversions, and No. 5 in fourth-down conversions.

None of that means Georgia is unbeatable. Although few, the Bulldogs have a couple of chinks in their armor that Clemson could exploit. If they can take advantage, maybe the Tigers walk away from Atlanta with a win.

Clemson vs. Georgia: keys to the game

Slow down the run

Georgia is the most talented team Clemson will face during the regular season. But even the better teams have injuries. For the Bulldogs, the position that's hurting right now is the running back room.

News broke earlier this week that Roderick Robinson will not play in Saturday's game after having surgery on his toe. The sophomore tailback will be out for a week or maybe even months. Ahead of him in the depth chart is Trevor Etienne, the brother of former Tiger Travis Etienne.

In March, Etienne was arrested for a DUI, leading to a discussion about suspending the Florida transfer. However, head coach Kirby Smart wouldn't say whether he would play. Smart is either planning on benching his starting back, possibly saving him from more embarrassment, or he's playing his cards close to his chest. If it's the former, Clemson could take advantage with its front seven.

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