BLACKSBURG, VA – Clemson’s recent struggles continue here in the first half as the No. 23 Tigers trail Virginia Tech 7-0 at halftime. This is the first time Clemson has been shut out in a half since the season-opening loss to Georgia.

Halftime Analysis

– The first half has been another discombobulated effort for the passing game. Cade Klubnik just hasn’t looked all that comfortable at times as he has hit on just 8-of-19 for 81 yards with an interception. Klubnik looks more like the quarterback we saw last year.

– Despite the struggles, the Tigers have outgained the Hokies 152-96.

– A new look for Wes Goodwin’s defense today as Tigers came out in a 4-3 look with freshman Sammy Brown making his first career start. So far it has helped address the issues Clemson had stopping the run last week, as the Hokies high-powered ground game has been held to just 29 yards.

– Clemson is having to go with a patchwork offensive line here today. Marcus Tate is out and Harris Sewell is playing at LG in his place. Tristan Leigh also left injured forcing true freshman Elyjah Thurmon into action. Having that kind of inexperience protecting the quarterbacks blind side is never ideal. Maybe that has played a part in Klubnik not looking comfortable. The Tigers have already allowed three sacks.

– Another blocked field goal and this one went back the other way 77 yards for the first touchdown of the game. This time the penetration came straight up the middle, despite Va Tech not sending much pressure. That is the fifth time Nolan Hauser has had one of his kicks blocked this season.

– Clemson put together a solid drive on its first offensive series of the game, but a couple of penalties stalled it before it ended with Klubnik throwing a pick that was basically like a long punt. Klubnik had an intentional grounding penalty and Antonio Williams was called for holding on a play after Mafah had already picked up more than 10 yards and a first down. Two crucial self-inflicted mistakes that kept the Tigers off the scoreboard.

– Williams also dropped a pass that hit him dead in the hands that would have been another first down. TJ Moore and Phil Mafah also had drops late in the half.

A limited number of signed replica road signs from Cade Klubnik are available!  Visit Clemson Variety & Frame or purchase online!