Previewing NC State’s Opponent: #21 Clemson

NC State and #21 Clemson will kickoff at Noon today down in Death Valley. Before the two cross-state rivals take to the field, here’s a preview of who to watch for on the Tigers.

Clemson is led by Junior Quarterback Cade Klubnik. He has completed 76.4% of his passes through 2 games for 520 yards and 5 touchdowns with only 1 interception. All 5 of those touchdown passes came in Clemson’s 2nd game against Appalachian State. Klubnik looked a lot more human in the season opener against #1 Georgia, throwing for 142 yards, averaging 4.9 yards per completion.

Senior Phil Mafah is Clemson’s feature back, rushing for 177 yards (6.8 YPC) and a touchdown in 2 games.

Senior Tight End Jake Brinningstool has the most receptions for Clemson through 2 games, with 10 receptions for 126 yards and 2 touchdowns. He was a 3rd Team All-ACC selection last year. True Freshman Wide Receiver Bryant Wesco has 9 receptions for 134 yards (team high) and a touchdown. Redshirt Sophomore Wide Receiver Antonio Williams has 9 receptions for 120 yards and a touchdown.

On the O-Line, Junior Blake Miller returns at Offensive Tackle, after earning 3rd Team All-ACC honors last year. Senior Offensive Guard Walker Perks made preseason All-ACC teams this year with Athlon and Phil Steele.

On Defense, Senior Linebacker Barrett Carter is back, after earned 2nd Team All-ACC honors last season, with 62 tackles, 3.5 sacks, 10 tackles for loss, 1 interception and 5 pass breakups. Defensive End TJ Parker earned Freshman All-American honors last year, tallying 41 tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss and 5 sacks as a True Freshman.

Sophomore Defensive End Peter Woods also earned Freshman All-American honors last season, with 27 tackles (2.5 for loss).

Sophomore Safety Khalil Barnes also earned Freshman All-American honors last season, with 41 tackles, 5 for loss, 6 pass breakups, 3 interceptions and 3 forced fumbles.

Senior Safety RJ Mickens earned a spot on the official Preseason All-ACC team.

Freshman Linebacker Sammy Brown earned a couple of Preseason Freshman All-American honors heading into the season, and he currently is 2nd on the team in tackles with 9.

Through 2 games, Junior Linebacker Wade Woodaz is leading the Tigers with 11 tackles.