The only way for Clemson to win this game was for the offense to get explosive plays. Alabama’s strategy was to control the line of scrimmage. So far, both teams are doing what they need to.
Alabama struck first, thanks to its five-star offensive line.
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Quarterback Jake Coker had all kinds of time on the first drive, and although he couldn’t do much with it, the Crimson Tide cashed in the second time around, as Heisman Trophy-winning running back Derrick Henry cruised to a touchdown to open the scoring.
Henry has incredible breakaway speed, and if he can get through the line quickly, causing the back seven to over-pursue in run help, it’s over.
Clemson’s defensive line has even been cheatin’. Star defensive end Shaq Lawson, less than 100 percent due to a leg injury, has lined up offsides three times, presumably looking for extra burst.
But the Tigers are still in this one, tied at 7-7, thanks to big plays. That has been Alabama’s Achilles’ heel all season, and big plays are what helped Ole Miss beat the Crimson Tide to hand them their only loss of the year.
On the next two drives, Clemson showed life, sacking Coker twice. If that continues, the Tigers have to be feeling good about their chances, even if the Alabama rush offense keeps dominating.
Clemson got a big kick return to start its drive following Alabama’s touchdown, and the Tigers converted on two key third downs, due in large part to quarterback Deshaun Watson’s scrambling ability. Then, Watson’s 31-yard touchdown pass to Hunter Renfrow got Clemson into the endzone.
The next drive was more of the same: Watson using his feet to make a huge throw, and Renfrow again finding his way into the endzone.
Clemson won’t win this game by trying to dink and dunk down the field against such a talented Alabama defense. But if the Tigers can get some big plays, they’ll stay in this one.
