ESPN Analyst Weighs in on Clemson’s Offensive Issues

Clemson’s offensive struggles through two games are no secret and have been well-documented heading into Saturday’s game at Georgia Tech.

Clemson is currently ranked No. 110 nationally in scoring offense, scoring 18.5 points per contest. The Tigers rank No. 120 in total offense, averaging 288.5 yards per contest. Clemson managed just 316 yards of offense in the comeback win over Troy last Saturday, mustering just 114 in the first half. Clemson also ranks 119th in total first downs (30), which is tied with Northern Illinois.

The running game has been one of the biggest issues. Through two games, the rushing offense ranks No. 128 overall, averaging 75.5 yards per game. The passing attack hasn’t fared all that well either, as Clemson ranks No. 78 with 213 passing yards per contest and 94th in passing efficiency (121.6).

During a recent episode of ESPN’s College Football Live, ESPN/ACC Network analyst Tom Luginbill weighed in on what’s been wrong with Clemson’s offense in a sluggish start to the season on that side of the ball.

“They just don’t seem to be on the same page,” said Luginbill, a former Georgia Tech starting quarterback and former Arena football star. “There’s hesitancy. There’s a lack of decisiveness and anticipation from the quarterback position. Likely that’s coming from him and the targets not being quite on the same page, being maybe slightly unsure with what they’re seeing. I know they have injuries obviously — Antonio Williams, some in the offensive line. But they’ve got to get back in rhythm and start getting the ball out of their hand.”

The Tigers hope to sort out the issues and kick into high gear offensively on Saturday against the Yellow Jackets. Kickoff at Bobby Dodd Stadium in Atlanta is set for 12 p.m. on ESPN.