It looked sluggish for a while, but Clemson has found a way to halftime with the lead. Tajh Boyd took a draw for a key fourth down conversion and a couple plays later threw a touchdown pass to Sam Cooper late in the half to put the Tigers on top, 13-7. Clemson has been using their quick offensive style to run about twice as many plays as North Carolina State’s offense, which could become a factor in the second half.
North Carolina State frustrated Boyd early with pressure, hits and forcing some poor throws. After getting Clemson in the end zone it was clear Boyd had calmed down. Will he be so relaxed in the second half?
North Carolina State had some chances to do some damage early on in the game but ultimately could not cash in. But they are playing a tough game on both sides of the football and certainly in this one as it moves to the second half. The Wolfpack have used a number of players to spread the football around on offense, perhaps to keep Clemson guessing while also waiting to see if anyone can take charge on the field.
Clemson will have to tighten up a bit to avoid allowing North Carolina State to make a run in the second half. The talent advantage is there for Clemson, but they may not be able to overcome allowing the home team to hang around late in to this game.