FSU Season Preview: Opponent Previews

Jan 3, 2014; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers linebacker Stephone Anthony (42) celebrates his interception late in the game with defensive end Corey Crawford (93) and linebacker Quandon Christian (34) in the second half of the 2014 Orange Bowl college football game against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Sun Life Stadium. The Tigers won 40-35. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-USA TODAY Sports

Clemson – September 20th

2013 Record: 11-2

Returning Starters: 4 on offense, 7 on defense

Clemson comes into this season needing to replace Tajh Boyd and Sammy Watkins. Cole Stoudt has the starting QB gig sealed up and will rely on the return of Charone Peake (torn ACL last fall) and veteran wide receivers Adam Humphries (483 yards, two touchdowns) and Mike Williams (316 yards, three touchdowns) to keep the offense at a high level. Rising sophomore tight end Jordan Leggett also figures to have an impact after a breakout spring.

Clemson’s defense has seen steady improvement since its horrific 2011 campaign, and the Tigers will need that to continue as the defense struggled in the biggest games a year ago. The defensive line figures to be the strength of the defense, returning standouts Corey Crawford and Vic Beasley. The winner of this game has gone on to win the ACC the last three seasons, and that trend is expected to continue.