Clemson seeks balance; Tigers 2nd in computers

CLEMSON -- When Chad Morris first took over as Clemson's offensive coordinator in January, he quickly tried to dispel the notion he ran a pass-heavy, spread offense. Morris emphasized his offense was a two-back, balanced philosophy that just appeared flashy because of the misdirection movement.

Clemson is still waiting for ideal balance to develop. No. 8 Clemson enters Saturday's game with Boston College fifth in the ACC in rushing (173 yards per game), despite being second in the ACC in plays per game (76.8). Most of Clemson's explosive plays come through the passing game, which is averaging 293 yards per game.

Part of the so-so run game performance can be linked to starting running back Andre Ellington, who has played through a hamstring strain during the last several weeks. The former Berkeley High star also suffered a thigh bruise at Virginia Tech, where he was held to 40 yards on 16 carries. Ellington was limited in practice this week.

"Once we get him healthy, I think you are going to see a different Andre," Morris said. "You're seeing flashes of Andre, but you just quite haven't seen him turn it loose.

"We really keep waiting for him to break out."

Ellington entered the season with the program's best career yards per carry average at 6.3 yards per carry. Ellington is averaging 4.6 yards per carry this season.

Boston College ranks 67th against the run, but features the nation's leading tackler, linebacker Luke Kuechly.

Tigers second

Clemson is second in the BCS computer rankings, with an average ranking of 2.3, trailing only Alabama. The BCS uses six computers for a computer ranking that constitutes one-third of the formula determining who plays in the national title game. The coaches poll and Harris Interactive poll are the other two polls used in the formula.

The first BCS standings are released in Week 8.

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He said it

Morris on Clemson being compared to last year's surprise team, Auburn: "I hope we are this year's Auburn in January."

Injury update

Boston College star back Montel Harris is out for Saturday's game with swelling in his knee. It's a break for the Clemson run defense, which while improved over recent weeks, ranks 77th in the country (167 yards per game). Clemson does not have any major injuries to report outside of kickoff specialist Spencer Benton's broken shoulder blade.