Associated Press
COLUMBIA, S.C. ó Clemson’s defensive plan for inexperienced North Carolina State seems clear: Blitz, blitz and blitz some more.
Tigers linebacker Scotty Cooper took a long pause when pressed about it. “Ahhh,” he said. “We’ll let you see (today).”
Clemson (1-1) looks to take its first step toward an Atlantic Coast Conference title when it takes on the Wolfpack (1-1) at Memorial Stadium this weekend.
The Tigers came into the season ranked ninth in the country and the favorites for their first ACC crown since 1991. An opening week humbling by Alabama, 34-10, took care of the national buzz. Clemson doesn’t want its conference hopes to take a hit against North Carolina State.
“It’s always important to win your first ACC game,” Clemson tailback C.J. Spiller said. “That’s something you can build on, gain some confidence.”
Confidence was what the Tigers needed most after the Alabama slammer, coach Tommy Bowden said.
While it wasn’t perfect, Clemson got to feel like winners again when it began its home season with a 45-17 victory over Championship Subdivision opponent The Citadel.
Clemson allowed 338 yards passing and 427 yards overall to the Bulldogs. But the Tigers were without top pass rusher Ricky Sapp and backup Jamie Cumbie and counted on younger players for any push up front.