Spiller sets ACC all-time yardage record
COLLEGE PARK, Md. -- Most who watched won't remember C.J. Spiller's 11-yard second-quarter kick return Saturday, but it was those yards that allowed him to surpass North Carolina's Leon Johnson (1993-96) and become the ACC's all-time leader in total yardage (5,945).
If Clemson had not been shocked by Maryland, Tiger Nation would surely remember the latest addition to the Spiller highlight reel -- a whirling, tackle-breaking 92-yard touchdown return in the third quarter.
Spiller thought it was perhaps the best return of his career, and it briefly rejuvenated the Tigers after Maryland scored to take a 24-13 lead.
It was his sixth career kick return for a touchdown and third of the season by Spiller, although he might have aggravated his turf toe condition on the return as he was seen limping toward the training table afterward.
Spiller wore a boot when interviewed after the game but brushed off questions regarding whether the injury had been aggravated.
Maryland did attempt to keep the ball away from Spiller on several occasions, once kicking the ball out of bounds in the first half and later lofting a short kick in the middle of the Clemson return team.
He finished with 18 carries for 72 yards and added two catches for 7 yards.
Hairston limited
Clemson tackle Chris Hairston did not start Saturday, but did return briefly to play during the second series.
Hairston played only a handful of snaps. He also sat out against Texas Christian last week after spraining the MCL in his left knee against Boston College. The injury usually requires several weeks for rest.
Clemson's starting tackles were Cory Lambert (left) and Landon Walker (right). Converted guard David Smith also logged time at right tackle.
What can Brown do for Clemson?
The answer: not much so far.
In an effort to develop some continuity at receiver, redshirt freshman Jaron Brown made his second consecutive start at receiver for the Tigers.
The staff praises his potential, but Brown again was unproductive in game situations, dropping two first-half passes and being flagged for a holding penalty. Brown finished with one catch for 6 yards.
A modest proposal
Spiller entered the game with just eight catches, though those have often been downfield for big gains as noted by his 18.8 yards per catch entering the game.
On Clemson's first play from scrimmage, Parker found Spiller in the flat area for a reception. It is the one area where Spiller hasn't been featured by Clemson this season, an area where similar versatile backs like Reggie Bush, Brian Westbrook and Marshall Faulk have thrived when receiving the ball in space.
Spiller on Saturday had just two catches, the second on which he lost his footing, perhaps costing the Tigers a big gain inside the 20 late in the fourth.
Allen MIA
Clemson tight end Dwayne Allen was critical of the Clemson offense earlier this week, specifically about his lack of usage. The tight end has not been a feature of the Clemson offense, but might Allen be a different type of talent?
On a third-and-34 situation Saturday, Allen ran straight down the center of the field, beating a linebacker and several defensive backs, though he was overthrown by Kyle Parker. Allen has flashed his potential on several occasions this season but entered with just two catches for 17 yards. He did not catch a pass Saturday.
Extra points
Clemson wore all white for the first time since playing at Virginia Tech in 2006. The look harkens back to the Danny Ford era when the Tigers traditionally wore white jerseys and pants on the road.… Maryland starting running back Da'Rel Scott injured his arm in the third quarter and did not return. … Maryland reserve back Davin Meggett is the son of former NFL star Dave Meggett, a North Charleston native. … Da'Quan Bowers registered his second sack of the season.
