Following an uneventful bye week, the Tigers return to Death Valley for this week’s game against North Carolina State University. Both teams have a lot on the line: this conference game pits two ranked teams in the same division against each other.

Last year’s game was dominated by a strong passing game from both teams. Until running back Tavien Feaster took off with an impressive 89-year touchdown, the teams battled it out in the air. True freshman, and recently named starting quarterback, Trevor Lawrence will be looking to keep the game aimed high, relying on his arm strength and incredible completion rate, 69% for the season and 80% in the last game against Wake Forest.  

Tiger fans will certainly recall the last meeting of the two teams in Clemson two years ago. After leading 10-3 at the half, Clemson gave up their lead to leave the game to NC State kicker Kyle Bambard with 2 seconds left. After a good kick was overruled due to a last second timeout, the missed field goal launched the game into overtime. The Tiger offense managed to score a touchdown in overtime to win the game.

In the past five meetings of the teams, the Wolfpack defense has allowed over 500 yards per game of Tiger offense. Clemson has won 13 out of the 14 meetings, but not by large margins. If Lawrence manages to keep his passing ability the focus of the game, and the offensive line is sharp enough to protect him, Clemson should be able to continue their winning tradition.  

The Tigers will have plenty of eyes on them. The Homecoming game has brought many former Tigers back to the Valley, and NC State has been anxiously awaiting another chance to dethrone Clemson. The game should again be evenly-matched and hard-fought. Official game time is set for 3:30 p.m. EDT.