CLEMSON – 2023’s iteration of Clemson vs. Wake Forest will look very different from the 51-45 shootout last season. For starters, this one will be played in Death Valley and it’s two different starters at quarterback.

Both the Tigers and Demon Deacons have had short of perfect starts to the season, but a win Saturday would go a long way. With the potential to gain momentum before the bye week, here’s how Clemson gets the upper hand and shuts down Wake Forest.

Create turnovers off Griffis

Against Georgia Tech, Demon Deacon quarterback Mitch Griffis turned the ball over four times with three interceptions and a lost fumble. For a Tigers defense that’s got a nose for the football, it’s a perfect storm.

With the home crowd behind them, Clemson should punish Griffis early for mistakes as he holds six interceptions through four weeks. Wake Forest will make a conscious effort to take care of the ball, but the opportunities will still be there.

Win in the trenches

Coming into this game, both teams are averaging over 170 rushing yards per game. That’s a number very important to Dabo Swinney, as the 200 passing, 200 rushing total leads to a win.

That goes for either team, as success on the ground can dictate the game. It’s interesting for the Tigers because Garrett Riley made a conceited effort to make plays downfield with quarterback Cade Klubnik last week.

How the Demon Deacons plan to approach Clemson’s growing offense is key here. On the other side of the ball, it’s a two-back system similar to the Tigers with Demond Claiborne and Justice Ellison. Containing that pair will work in tandem with forcing Griffis to make mistakes.

With this blueprint, Clemson can move to 2-2 in the ACC and feel much better about themselves heading into the bye week.