Clemson Furman: Postgame Thoughts
By: Grayson Mann
Clemson Football is back in Death Valley! The Tigers took on the Furman Paladins today. Here is your postgame synopsis! Let’s take a look at how The Tigers performed today.
The first half was the DJ Uiagalelei show. DJ showed poise and confidence as he led three straight scoring drives in the first half. Regardless of whether it was against an inferior opponent like Furman, how the offense moved down the field was crucial for the season. DJ went 11-12 for 148 yards and a TD pass. Something DJ also did very well was making plays with his legs. DJ had some moves in the open field, which fans should get excited about. Something to note that could be significant down the road was the running game. The backs struggled to get to the second level and get chunk plays. Shipley had one double-digit run in the first half, resulting in a seventeen-yard score. Davis Allen had a big block on the second level, and Shipley took care of the rest. For this offense, starting the season off strong is an excellent sign of things to come. Clemson’s defense had a shaky start in the half, giving up nine points which included a fifty-four-yard drive for Furman’s only touchdown of the half. The half would end with DJ leading his fourth scoring drive of the day. DJ again displayed plays with his legs, hooking up with Antonio Williams for a massive play within the two-minute drill.
The first half was all about DJ. It is evident he is more confident in his ability as a passer and in his ability to make plays with his legs. These kinds of games are all about building continuity and confidence within each phase of the game.
The third quarter began with a major response from the Clemson defense. Barrett Carter would come up with an interception. The furman offense made it their mission to move the ball down the field, utilizing screens and misdirection within the option to freeze Clemson’s speedy defense. DJ would have another great drive, with a two yard laser to Beaux Collins in the corner of the end zone. The Bosco connection continues to get in sync. The quarter would end with a interception, in and out of the hands of Brannon Spector. This would conclude DJ’s day and what a day it was for number five. For this starting offense, it is all about building reps and confidence and today surely went a long way in helping in that aspect of the team.
The fourth quarter was not the best effort from the Tigers as the backups trickled into the game. Furman would put together multiple scoring drives, great news for Furman, not the best if you are a Tiger fan. Clemson would shut down arguably, Furman’s best drive of the day at the goaline. Overall, some miscues that can be cleaned up but a solid performance from Clemson. The offense lead by DJ is certainly what should be the week’s headline, with back to back thirty point performances. The defense gave up ten first downs out of 18 attempts, certainly something to address as the season moves forward.
The Tigers are now 2-0 looking towards their next opponent in Louisiana Tech.
