Clemson Tigers Pass Rush Challenges Louisville Quarterback

The Clemson Tigers haven’t had much to worry about since Week 1 of this season, but this weekend they face their biggest test since then.

In their preview of the upcoming matchup with the Louisville Cardinals, Pro Football Focus’ Dalton Wasserman and Max Chadwick highlighted a specific side of the ball the Tigers should prepare for.

“Tyler Shaw has been one of the most successful quarterbacks in college football this season. The main reason for this jump is how good the redshirt senior is when he has time in the pocket. His 92.4 passing grade when he stayed clean trails only Jackson Dart. and Shader Sanders among FBS callers,” the writer said. “Under pressure, Shaw has a 62.3 passing grade and as many scoring plays (six) as big throws. Louisville’s offensive line has been below average in protecting the quarterback this season. year, playing in 111th place in terms of acceptable pressure level (36.4%).”

Clemson’s defensive line will have to step up and be better than just average to get to the quarterback in this case. As a group, they are currently tied for 38th in the country with the Florida Gators.

TJ Parker currently leads all Tigers defensive backs with 10 total pressures, five of which are rushing for sacks.

He had an outstanding freshman season, and while he was okay, he also didn’t improve much. Consistency was also an issue. In four of the seven games he played, he had two or fewer pressures.

The next two players who come under the most pressure are actually off-ball midfielders, which is not a problem. big sign.

Barrett Carter, who had 10 tackles on the year, was a little more destructive. He had three sacks and picked off two passes at the line.

Carter is a team leader who many thought should have been drafted last year. It’s hard to imagine where the defense would be today without him.

Wade Woodaz is another midfielder with 10 pressure points, matching his increased importance in the front seven.

Perhaps the most disappointing player in terms of passing was Peter Woods. Even though Woods is playing great defense again this season, he hasn’t progressed or even matched the pace he looked last year when putting pressure on the quarterback.

If Clemson hopes to keep its winning streak going, they will need talented defensive backs to live up to expectations against a challenging offensive line.