Clemson's Unexpected ACC Journey: A Season of Surprises

Welcome to the Locked On Clemson newsletter, your daily Clemson Tigers newsletter. I'm John Bivens. I also host a daily podcast on the Clemson Tigers called Locked On Clemson.

Three weeks into the ACC season, and it's safe to say that the landscape is not what anyone anticipated. The preseason predictions had Florida State and Clemson at the top, with the Seminoles often taking the number one spot. Yet, here we are, with FSU struggling at 0-3, a scenario that has left many, including myself, utterly shocked.

The Seminoles' unexpected downfall began with a surprising loss to Georgia Tech in Ireland, followed by a home defeat against Boston College, and most recently, a narrow loss to Memphis. It's a tough pill to swallow for FSU fans, and while part of me relishes seeing a rival falter, there's a bittersweet edge to it. FSU's struggles could negatively impact Clemson's playoff chances, as a strong ACC is crucial for bolstering our resume.

Clemson's own journey hasn't been without its bumps. We started the season with a disappointing loss to Georgia, a game where our offense failed to deliver. However, we bounced back with a dominant performance against App State, showcasing the potential that many believe this team holds. Our quarterback, Cade Klubnik, had a breakout game, throwing for nearly 400 yards and five touchdowns, a performance that has put him in the Heisman conversation.

Looking ahead, the upcoming game against NC State is pivotal. Last season, we stumbled early in ACC play, starting 0-2, and we can't afford a repeat. Historically, we've dominated NC State, and this game is a chance to set the tone for the rest of the season. Our team is highly rated by 24/7 Sports, with strong performances across the board, particularly from our offensive line and defensive units.

As we gear up for this crucial matchup, it's essential to keep the momentum going and capitalize on the strengths we've shown. The ACC may be unpredictable this year, but Clemson has the talent and drive to navigate these challenges and emerge victorious.

Thank you for joining me in this edition of the Locked On Clemson newsletter. Stay tuned for more insights and updates as we continue to follow the Tigers' journey this season. Go Tigers!