A November recreation for Clemson does not have the heightened that means within the nationwide image which may usually have been the case, however the Tigers are going into Saturday afternoon’s recreation towards visiting Duke decided to make one thing of the season.
“We’re able to get again into the battle,” Clemson coach Dabo Swinney mentioned.
Each groups have been off final week after struggling losses of their earlier video games. Clemson (3-4, 2-3 Atlantic Coast Convention) dropped a house recreation to SMU, whereas Duke (4-3, 3-1) fell at house to undefeated Georgia Tech.
The Blue Devils wish to stay within the ACC title chase.
“We’ve got an opportunity to do what you wish to do – play nice in November,” Duke coach Manny Diaz mentioned, pointing to final November’s outcomes proving vital to the workforce’s success. “With all we’ve to play for, we all know the identical can be true.”
Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik, who missed the SMU recreation due to an ankle damage, was again at observe Monday.
Diaz mentioned he is anticipating seeing Klubnik in Saturday’s recreation.
“We all the time put together for groups to be at full energy, particularly coming off the bye,” Diaz mentioned. “It is the individuals across the quarterback that make the large distinction. Their weaponry on the surface can be pretty much as good as anyone we have seen to this point this yr.”
Clemson lists Tristan Smith and Cole Turner as co-starters at receiver this week.
Duke depends closely on quarterback Darian Mensah, who has thrown for 17 touchdowns with two interceptions.
There’s nonetheless a stage of mystique involving the Clemson workforce, Diaz mentioned.
“You are going to need to have some actual perception to go in there and knock that workforce off,” he mentioned. “I believe we have got the best management to set the tone for our guys and the way they work this week.”
Swinney mentioned the time without work for the reason that final recreation has put the Tigers in a greater place when it comes to accidents. He continues to place a optimistic gentle on the workforce.
“There’s been some disappointment this season, however there’s been quite a lot of good,” Swinney mentioned.
Whereas a more healthy workforce ought to assist, Swinney pointed to a few areas that want upgrades.
“If we’ll win in November, we’ve to run the ball higher, be higher on cross protection,” he mentioned.
Klubnik has thrown for 1,530 yards, 11 touchdowns and 5 interceptions.
-Area Stage Media
