From North Carolina Tar Heels On SI · · 1m
North Carolina Targets Clemson's Freshman QB
Tar Heels exploit Clemson's shaky freshman QB with pressure and run defense
In brief
Tar Heels exploit Clemson's shaky freshman QB with pressure and run defense North Carolina can overwhelm Clemson's new starter by targeting his inexperience with aggressive pressure and run defense Originally reported by North Carolina Tar Heels On SI.
Clemson's Struggles
Clemson lost 51-10 to LSU and injured starting QB Christopher Vizzina
“Clemson lost 51-10 to LSU”
Tait Reynolds Expected
Clemson will start freshman Tait Reynolds against North Carolina
“Clemson expected to start freshman signal caller Tait Reynolds”
Generate Pressure
North Carolina's pass rush can collapse Reynolds' pocket and limit escape routes
“If there are a couple of ways to derail a quarterback's rhythm, it’s collapsing the pocket and suffocating escape valves”
Stop the Run
North Carolina's run defense can disrupt Clemson's passing game by forcing long second and third downs
“Stopping the run may be the most important factor from the Tar Heels' perspective”
Force Negative Script
North Carolina's offense can create scoring opportunities to pressure Reynolds
“If the Tar Heels can consistently move the ball and produce touchdowns, Clemson will have no choice but to lean on Reynolds”
Key Players
Jaylen Harvey and Xavier Lewis provide defensive stability for North Carolina
“Jaylen Harvey and Xavier Lewis have proven they can alter the line-of-scrimmage battle”
Freshman Challenge
Reynolds has only played one game and lacks experience against top teams
“Reynolds could prove to be better than Vizzina, but that isn't the case right now”
Game Strategy
North Carolina's plan targets Reynolds' inexperience with aggressive pressure and run defense
“If North Carolina can consistently pin Clemson in these situations, mixing disguised blitzes with exotic coverage looks could discombobulate Reynolds' ability”
What to remember
North Carolina can overwhelm Clemson's new starter by targeting his inexperience with aggressive pressure and run defense
