Clemson quarterback Tajh Boyd vaulted into the upper echelon of Heisman contenders after leading the Tigers to an exciting win over Georgia last weekend. The senior combined for five touchdowns running and passing against the Bulldogs, a feat which put him at the top of the latest HeismanPundit Straw Poll.
But to truly challenge for the Heisman, Boyd needs outstanding numbers to go with his wins and, while Clemson is making quick work of South Carolina State on Saturday (they led 45-7 in the third quarter as of this writing), his production wasn’t exactly sterling against these Bulldogs.
Boyd completed 14 of 23 passes for 169 yards with no touchdowns against SC State. He did score a rushing touchdown, but only had 10 yards on the ground before being pulled in the third quarter.
Why harp on average numbers in an easy win?
Because, come November, Boyd will ultimately be judged by Heisman voters on his overall season production. An opponent like South Carolina State generally gives a candidate an easy opportunity to pad his numbers and provide a statistical cushion against future downturns. But Boyd missed that chance and he’ll have to make up for it with a huge game later to get back on pace.
Don’t get me wrong. This game isn’t going to cost Boyd the Heisman. But it will make it harder for him to convince voters down the road that his overall numbers are Heisman worthy.