1. Front 7 is lethal
Speaking of that front seven…they have been dominant at times this season. They struggled rushing the passer in the first few games of the season, but have recorded 11 sacks in their last two victories over Arkansas and Kentucky. This is the kind of performance we expected from a team that finished in the top five in sacks a season ago.
They have also drastically improved the rush defense. They even managed to slow down Alabama’s rushing attack which has typically dominated the Aggies over the years. Clemson has leaned on their running game in recent weeks but they found no room against the Wrecking Crew.
Daylon Mack and Justin Madubuike make up one of the best defensive tackle duos in the country. Landis Durham and Kingsley Keke took a while to find their way but have been equally dominant in SEC play. Linebackers Tyrel Dodson and Otaro Alaka have been flying all over the field making plays.
This is the best strength of the entire team so far and a major reason they won the previous two games. Hopefully they keep up the intensity for the rest of the season.
Jeff Shull is the Site Expert for the Gig Em Gazette on FanSided. Follow him on Twitter, and be sure to follow the Gig Em Gazette on Facebook and Twitter.