By Heath Bradley.

By Heath Bradley

CLEMSON – The nation has not seen the best of Sammy Watkins in 2012. The Clemson receiver hopes to change that Saturday when No. 13 Clemson takes on Virginia Tech in Death Valley. Watkins has played in just over two and a half games for the Tigers due to suspension and illness so far this year, which leaves him with only 16 receptions for 118 yards and no touchdowns.

There is however one impact Watkins has made in the Tigers rushing game. The sophomore has rushed for 99 yards on eight carries and one touchdown, averaging 12.4 yards per carry. His ability to change the game as a rusher will hopefully allow him more opportunities in the passing game as the season continues for the Tigers.

Watkins had one of his best games of the 2011 season versus the Hokies in the ACC Championship game, when he caught five passes for 80 yards and a touchdown, while also running the ball five times for 55 yards. Add in his 22-yard kick return and Watkins touched the ball 11 times for the Tigers that night, while totaling 157 yards.

Heading into his third matchup versus the Hokies, Watkins will look to channel the Watkins of 2011 and make plays to help lead Clemson to a third straight victory over Virginia Tech. For Watkins, getting back on the field is the most exciting part of Saturday’s game.

The opportunity to play another game with his teammates in Death Valley in front of the Clemson fans has Watkins excited. When asked what his thoughts were about Saturday, he smiled and responded by saying, “A big game, everyone playing hard. Just have fun out there trying to score.”

While Virginia Tech (4-3, 2-1 ACC) has struggled at times during this year, Watkins was quick to make sure that everyone knew that the Hokies still featured a strong and talented defense.

“They play hard, they have a great defense,” he said.

One area of the Virginia Tech defense that Watkins was very complimentary of was the Hokies secondary.

“Their defensive backs are very good. We just have to make plays,” he said.

For Watkins the key to success for the Clemson wide receiver corps is making sure that every player knows their role, plays their role, and plays hard.

“We have to play our role and be consistent,” he said. “We have to be physical around the ball and on the perimeter.”

More importantly, Watkins understands that Clemson must focus on Virginia Tech, but also focus on Clemson, the mantra for this team throughout the season.

“We just have to be us and take care of Clemson,” he said.