DONE DEAL: 5-star from Tigers just commit with Georgia Bulldogs
The Clemson Tigers haven’t defeated the Georgia Bulldogs in football in over a decade. To change that, they’ll need to deliver one of their best performances of the season.
The two teams will clash on Saturday at noon in Atlanta.
Clemson, currently ranked No. 14, last secured a victory over the top-ranked Bulldogs in 2013 under head coach Dabo Swinney. At that time, Georgia’s current head coach, Kirby Smart, was serving as Nick Saban’s defensive coordinator at Alabama.
Their most recent encounter, three years ago in Charlotte, was a defensive battle. Clemson was fresh off a College Football Playoff appearance, but Georgia came out on top and went on to win back-to-back national championships.
With an expanded playoff format this year and both teams missing the College Football Playoff last season, this game is seen as a crucial step for both programs.
As Clemson prepares to face Georgia, here are three keys to their success.
No Turnovers
This game features two teams that can change the outcome with a single play. Clemson must avoid giving Georgia any extra opportunities.
Last season, Georgia forced 17 turnovers, with most of their defensive unit returning. While they didn’t recover many fumbles, they intercepted 14 of those turnovers. This places significant pressure on Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik and his receivers to prevent the Bulldogs from gaining possession.
In their last matchup, Georgia won 10-3, and a single turnover could be the deciding factor once again.
Get Mafah on the Run
Heading into this game, Clemson’s most potent offensive weapon will be running back Phil Mafah. Establishing a strong ground game is crucial for the Tigers, as it will ease the pressure on the passing attack and help control the clock against Georgia’s explosive offense.
Mafah rushed for 965 yards and 13 touchdowns last season, and he’s on track to surpass 1,000 yards this year, which would boost his draft prospects.
However, on Saturday, Clemson needs Mafah to shoulder the load, draw the attention of Georgia’s defense, and create opportunities for Klubnik to make key throws.
Fly to the Quarterback
Clemson boasted a Top 10 defense last year, finishing with 32 sacks and an average of 2.46 per game, ranking No. 36 in the FBS.
However, facing Georgia with Carson Beck at quarterback, it’s crucial for Clemson to apply constant pressure early and often to secure a win. It’s not just about racking up sacks but creating relentless pressure, which will need to start with linebacker Barrett Carter. Carter can anchor the unit, especially as they look to maximize contributions from edge rushers like T.J. Parker and Peter Woods, two of the top freshmen in the nation last season.
If Carter, Parker, Woods, and the rest of the front seven can consistently get to Beck, the Tigers will have a better chance of disrupting Georgia’s offensive rhythm.