Clemson Tigers Week 7 Offense Postgame Grades vs. Boston College

Clemson fought off what would have been the biggest upset of the day against the Boston College Eagles thanks to a 24-14 victory. The Tigers proved again that they could win in these kinds of street fight conditions, and the offense did just enough to make up for its earlier mistakes in the game. Now, the Tigers can turn their attention towards the Florida State Seminoles in a matchup of Top 5 ranked teams that will have both ACC and national championship implications.

But before that, here at the postgame grades for the offense against Boston College in Week 7:

Quarterback: B-

Despite completing 30-of-44 passes for 344 yards and a touchdown, Tajh Boyd did not have the sharpest outing early on in the game as the offense stalled out often and failed to score a single touchdown in the first half. Hand offs in the running game were a problem early, and he missed several wide open targets early on in the game. But Boyd did respond with a stronger second half and got Clemson on the board with a touchdown pass to Sammy Watkins and a rushing touchdown. Boyd also became Clemson’s all-time leader in passing yards with his performance on Saturday. But against Florida State, Boyd must be sure to capitalize on the opportunities given to him by the defense.

Running Back: C

The running backs struggled to make any kind of impact on the game and had trouble protecting the football, as Rod McDowell and Zac Brooks each committed fumbles that Boston College recovered. McDowell did finish with 91 yards on 18 carries, which was his highest rushing total since the season opener when he rushed for 132 yards. Brooks also rushed for 42 yards on six carries, averaging a modest seven yards per carry. Both must make sure ball protection is a premium against the Seminoles, especially with the way their offense has performed thus far.

Wide Receiver: B

Clemson’s receivers continued to gain traction despite Boyd’s off game, as Watkins led all receivers with 101 receiving yards and the lone passing touchdown of the day, while Adam Humphries channeled his inner Wes Welker with nine receptions for 81 yards. Martavis Bryant also added two lone receptions for 48 yards. These big three are finding their niche in the offense through the first six games, and each has proven themselves as legitimate threats anywhere on the field. Meanwhile, tight ends Stanton Seckinger, Sam Cooper, and receiver Mike Williams provide depth in the passing game as well. Clemson’s 10th ranked passing attack should bode well for them as they host the Seminoles on Saturday.