CLEMSON – The Wake Forest offense was in a chokehold on their trip to Death Valley, but one penalty drew boos as if the Clemson Tigers had given up a record on defense. It wasn’t intended for them, it was for the ACC officials who called linebacker Jeremiah Trotter Jr. for a questionable roughing the passer.

In the contest, the Demon Deacons managed just 239 yards, 75 of those coming on a last-ditch drive down two scores in the fourth quarter. Things didn’t look that way when Trotter was called for a penalty.

Clemson was up just 10-3 with Wake Forest in opposing territory, but the drive looked bleak on 3rd-and-14. Wes Goodwin dialed up the pressure, and Trotter took down quarterback Mitch Griffis as he made the throw. T

he yellow laundry came out late, and it saved a dead drive, spotting the Demon Deacons three points. Defensive tackle Ruke Orhorhoro wasn’t a fan of the call, and laughed when talking about it postgame.

“I saw it. I was watching it and I didn’t agree with the call but you know, things happen and everything doesn’t go your way so it was just good to see us bounce back,” Orhorhoro said. “But nah, he hit him pretty hard. To me, I like the hit so.”

Orhorhoro shrugged at the end and moments like that can be game-changers. It’s something that has to be coached and he discussed that side of it. “Protect the quarterback” is something Orhorhoro referenced, but he doesn’t believe this was a great example of that as Trotter timed his hit well.

“They always tell us if you see the motion of his arm, don’t even hit him and so, we usually coach that up,” Orhorhoro said.

It’s odd to think a group meant to hit their opponent is told not to, but that’s the reality. Doesn’t mean Clemson won’t lay the lumber or that Orhorhoro won’t have a smile on his face again when the Tigers do so.