First of all, it should be noted that fifth-year senior center Ryan Norton missed this game with a knee injury, leaving the group without a single 2014 start between them.
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Louisville’s first three games have been decided by 13 points. It may prove to be true, but Thursday also proved that Watson still has plenty of room for development.
The teams managed to slog their way through a listless first quarter, but Clemson finally put a drive together early in the second quarter.
After Clemson converted a field goal to make its lead 20-10, Samuel caught the ensuing kickoff at his own goal line and raced down the right sideline nearly untouched for the score. Watson tried a deep ball that was easily intercepted – his second of the night – and the Cardinals made the Tigers pay.
Second, the defense, which coaches expected could be as good as last season’s group that lost seven starters to the NFL Draft, is not. Watson also had 54 rushing yards. Plus, it gave us Clemson fooling Louisville by lining up an offensive tackle wide and throwing deep to tight end Jordan Leggett, who was lined up at tackle. On Thursday, he looked like a star, bailing out a mediocre night from Watson. He carried 24 times for 139 yards against a Louisville defense that now has allowed a 100-yard rusher in six consecutive games.
Louisville then took advantage of Clemson’s coverage issues. This will be one of the best defenses Clemson faces all season, and if Watson settles back into a rhythm, this offense could develop nice balance – something that’s especially needed after losing Williams at receiver. Bolin was sacked five times. Bolin started on Thursday against Clemson and played most of the game.
TURNING POINT: Just as it developed last Saturday at Houston, Louisville kicker John Wallace had a chance for a game-tying field goal in the final minutes.
Deshaun Watson finished the night going 21 of 30 for 199 yards and two touchdowns, as well as two interceptions.
DIDN’T GET THE JOB DONE: Louisville offensive line.
Maybe the latest uniform debacle from Adidas is to blame.
The Cardinals had just 15 yards in the first quarter and have scored only 7 first-quarter points in two games.
The Tigers led 17-10 at the end of the third quarter, but Louisville had driven to the Clemson 39-yard line. That means the Cardinals are now 3 of 31 on third downs in their history against Clemson.
Petrino says his offense will have their hands full with Clemson’s defense.
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Clemson made its first trip to Louisville Thursday night.
