1. Is Clemson (No. 9) for real?
It seems strange to ask this question of a top-10 team as we head into Week 3, but Clemson’s schedule has been about as easy as it gets to this point. Wofford and Appallachian State (both FCS schools) are not worthy tests for a top FBS school with playoff aspirations.
Up next for the Tigers is a scrappy Louisville team that gave Auburn all it could handle in Week 1 and then lost a nail-biter to Houston in Week 2. The Cardinals will be fighting for their lives at home on Thursday night on this nationally televised contest (begins at 7:30 p.m. ET on ESPN).
Sophomore quarterback Kyle Bolin could get the start over freshman Lamar Jackson, who was pulled from the starting lineup in Week 2 against Houston. Bolin played well in reserve, and head coach Bobby Petrino seems to be leaning in his direction for this upcoming prime-time contest.
“As we got into the fourth quarter I felt Kyle gave us the best chance to operate the offense that could get us back in the game,” Petrino said, via kyforward.com. “And he came in and did a nice job with it, just like he did against Kentucky (last season). He hit hands and he executed what we were asking him to do in that part of the game and I think he’s had a good week of practice, as have the other ones.”
Louisville’s defense has caused four interceptions in its first two games, meaning Clemson’s sophomore quarterback Deshaun Watson needs to bring his “A-game” to this upcoming contest. He’s been terrific to this point, leading the Tigers to score 90 points in two games. Any lapses in judgement against the Cardinals, however, could lead to a big upset on the national stage.