CHARLOTTE: Last season, Clemson failed to reach double-figure victories for the first time since 2010. But a strong close to the season, including a Gator Bowl victory to cap a five-game winning streak, has the Tigers’ confidence high. Dabo Swinney’s program has more stability than most, returning both coordinators, its starting quarterback and a host of talented players on its defensive unit.
Quarterback Cade Klubnik and running back Phil Mafah stayed on message at the ACC Kickoff from Charlotte, Thursday, pledging to take better care of the ball and finish drives in the red zone. Barrett Carter and RJ Mickens are two key cogs on a defense that will be counted on to carry a heavy load and create havoc. Clemson will be tested right away as a matchup with perennial power Georgia lurks in Week 1.