Clemson looks for similar effort against Miami

CLEMSON -- OK, let's see that again.

Following Clemson's 38-3 win over Wake Forest, a question came up in the postgame press conference, the same question that is no doubt being asked throughout South Carolina -- can the Tigers repeat that execution and overall performance next week?

Through the decade, Clemson Nation has seen many up and downs. Consistent, efficient performances have eluded the program.

On the horizon is perhaps Clemson's most difficult regular season test, traveling to face talented and resurgent No. 8 Miami (5-1, 2-1 ACC) on the road at 3:30 p.m. Saturday (WCIV/ABC-TV).

The game will be Clemson's third against a top 15 team this season, a strength of schedule equaled only by Miami and Washington.

"I think we'll have their attention," Swinney said of his players. "We had a lot of success against a good team (Saturday) it kind of gives you more credibility."

The Tigers (3-3, 2-2 ACC) only have one week to prepare for Miami (5-1, 2-1), which will be motivated. The Coastal Division became further clouded as Georgia Tech (6-1, 4-1) defeated Virginia Tech (5-2, 3-1) on Saturday, to vault over the Hokies and Canes.

The most daunting prospect is contending with the Miami offense.

Under new offensive coordinator Mark Whipple, who came to Miami

via the Philadelphia Eagles, quarterback Jacory Harris has thrived, completing 65 percent of his passes this season for 9.3 yards per attempt.

Whipple has effectively created mismatches, using a wide assortment of offensive weapons: from hard-charge running backs Graig Cooper and Javarris James, to game-breaking speedster Travis Benjamin, to tall play-making receivers like Leonard Hankerson and Laron Byrd.

And Harris has had plenty of time to throw, supported by perhaps the best offensive line the conference, anchored by 6-7 left tackle Jason Fox.

While Miami entered the weekend fifth in the ACC in total offense, the number might not be indicative of the Hurricanes prowess, as they have survived a brutal September schedule that included wins over Oklahoma, Georgia Tech and Florida State.

It might be the toughest test for Kevin Steele's defense this season on a talent basis. Clemson has allowed 92 points the second lowest in the ACC after North Carolina (85).

Also of interest will be to see if Clemson's offense can consolidate gains made against Wake Forest. The Tigers reached a season-best 38 points midway through the third quarter, after entering ranked 102nd in the country in total offense.

The Tigers featured more play action, quarterback option, and tighter formations. Swinney reiterated Sunday that it was a product of staying on schedule and not an altered game plan.

"The biggest thing to me is [Saturday's win] was a complete team win and it's really all about us," Swinney said. "It doesn't matter who we play or where we play or what the weather is like or what kind of uniforms we have on. It's really about us."

Extra points

Clemson safety Kantrell Brown has a sprained neck but avoided major injury. He was carted off in the second quarter against Wake. Clemson's avoided any other significant injuries. … Swinney praised the offensive line's effort saying Dalton Freeman "did an excellent job" and Chris Hairston made a difference in his return, grading out at 82 percent. Mason Cloy logged time at center and played 11 snaps at guard. … Swinney was pleased with Jamie Harper, who caught the ball well and was effective chip blocking.

Reach Travis Sawchik at tsawchik@postandcourier.com and check out his Clemson blog at www.postandcourier.com/blogs/tiger_tracks.