Clemson vs. Georgia Tech: 5 Halftime Adjustments the Tigers Need to Make

In a battle of two of the ACC’s most explosive offenses, Georgia Tech is leading No. 6 Clemson 24-3 heading into the half. The Tigers have struggled holding the resurgent Yellow Jacket offense in check thus far, but will look to change their fortunes with several halftime adjustments. 

1. Open up the air attack                               

Tajh Boyd has proven to be one of the top gunners in the nation. However, the dual-threat QB has hit the ground running in this game despite Georgia Tech’s ACC-leading rush defense. I understand the desire to fill a void with Ellington out, but the offense needs to get back to what they do best—big plays through the air. Boyd’s many options can beat GT's secondary in a foot race, so going downfield is a must.

2. Force GT to pass

The Jacket rush attack has been brilliant so far, led by dual-threat quarterback Tevin Washington. What has Washington done through the air? Missed targets before finally completing his first pass with less than four remaining in the second quarter. The quarterback’s confidence was shaky coming into this game, so it would be a good idea to continue testing his passing abilities by bringing forward the secondary and boosting the struggling defensive line.

3. Let the freshman get the snaps      

No, I’m not talking about Sammy Watkins. Mike Bellamy, Clemson’s seldom-used blue-chip running back came into today’s game as the backup to starter D.J. Howard. But after Howard’s early struggles and a crucial fumble deep in his team’s own territory, it is clear that Bellamy should be the man getting the handoffs with Ellington out. Diva tendencies aside, why not see if the speedy freshman can handle the feature role?

4. Nuke ‘em

The career night of DeAndre Hopkins against UNC feels like a distant memory. Clemson’s second-best wide receiver has been missing in action today, with only one catch going into the second half. "Nuke" needs to find a way to get involved to prevent Sammy Watkins from getting double covered.

5. Control the clock

After forcing two GT three-and-outs to start the game, Clemson has gotten rocked in time of possession. The Tiger defense is reeling against the Jacket triple option, and will get very winded if they stay on the field for long stretches against the rush.