Gameday Guide: January 14, 9:00 p.m., Clemson vs. Georgia Tech.
Gameday Guide: January 14, 9:00 p.m., Clemson vs. Georgia Tech
On January 14, at 9:00 p.m. ET, the Clemson Tigers will face off against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets in a highly anticipated ACC matchup. Both teams are coming off mixed results this season, with Clemson looking to maintain its status as a perennial power in the conference while Georgia Tech seeks to find consistency under new leadership. As the two teams prepare to square off in what promises to be an exciting contest, fans and analysts alike are eagerly anticipating a thrilling game under the bright lights.
This Gameday Guide will break down everything you need to know about the Clemson vs. Georgia Tech game, including key players, matchups to watch, strategies to expect, and how to tune in. Whether you’re planning to watch from the comfort of your home or you’re heading to the arena, this guide will provide you with the information necessary to get the most out of your Gameday experience.
Game Overview: The Big Picture
The Clemson Tigers are one of the most storied programs in college football, having won multiple ACC titles and national championships in recent years. Under head coach Dabo Swinney, Clemson has become a household name in college football, known for its strong defense, explosive offense, and consistent competitiveness in both the ACC and national picture.
Georgia Tech, on the other hand, has experienced a period of transition over the past few seasons. The Yellow Jackets are in the process of rebuilding under head coach Brent Key, who took over the program after the departure of long-time coach Geoff Collins. Key’s challenge has been to revitalize a program that had struggled in recent years while trying to implement his own system and philosophy. Despite some early growing pains, Georgia Tech has shown flashes of promise, and the team will be eager to prove its worth against a strong opponent like Clemson.
This matchup is crucial for both teams. Clemson, with a goal of securing a top spot in the ACC standings, will look to assert its dominance and continue its march toward a potential playoff berth. Georgia Tech, on the other hand, will be aiming to pull off an upset, gain confidence, and show that it’s a program on the rise.
Key Players to Watch
Clemson Tigers
1. Cade Klubnik (Quarterback)
Clemson’s success in this game will heavily depend on the performance of sophomore quarterback Cade Klubnik. A five-star recruit out of high school, Klubnik has immense talent, but his ability to perform in big games remains a key area of focus. With a strong arm, good mobility, and the ability to make all the throws, Klubnik has the tools to lead Clemson’s offense to success. In this matchup, Klubnik’s ability to manage the game, make key throws, and avoid turnovers will be critical. Georgia Tech’s defense will likely focus on limiting Klubnik’s big plays, making his decision-making and poise under pressure paramount.
2. Will Shipley (Running Back)
Will Shipley is the heart and soul of Clemson’s rushing attack. The junior running back is a powerful, shifty runner with excellent vision and an ability to break tackles. Shipley’s ability to gain consistent yardage on the ground will be essential for Clemson to control the tempo of the game. Georgia Tech’s defense will have its hands full trying to slow down Shipley, and Clemson will likely lean on him to wear down the Yellow Jackets’ defensive line and set up play-action passes for Klubnik.
3. Myles Murphy (Defensive Line)
On defense, Myles Murphy is one of the top playmakers for Clemson. The defensive lineman has been a standout throughout his career and is expected to be one of the top players on the field. Murphy’s ability to disrupt the pocket and put pressure on Georgia Tech’s quarterback will be a key factor in the game. Look for him to be a constant presence in the backfield, potentially forcing mistakes and sacks that could lead to Clemson’s defense creating turnovers.
4. Ruke Orhorhoro (Defensive Tackle)
Another critical player for Clemson’s defense is Ruke Orhorhoro, a powerful and athletic defensive tackle who plays a significant role in the Tigers’ run defense. If Clemson is going to stop Georgia Tech’s offense, Orhorhoro will need to clog up the middle and prevent the Yellow Jackets from establishing any momentum on the ground. His ability to shed blockers and penetrate Georgia Tech’s offensive line will be crucial in slowing down their rushing attack.
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
1. Haynes King (Quarterback)
Georgia Tech’s hopes of pulling off the upset will largely depend on the performance of quarterback Haynes King. King, who transferred from Texas A&M, has shown flashes of brilliance, but consistency has been an issue at times. As a dual-threat quarterback, King has the ability to make plays with his arm and his legs, which could give Clemson’s defense some problems. If King is able to protect the football and make key throws in critical moments, Georgia Tech will have a much better chance of staying competitive. His ability to extend plays with his legs will be a critical factor in how the game unfolds.
2. Dontae Smith (Running Back)
Dontae Smith has been the workhorse for Georgia Tech’s rushing attack. A hard-nosed, downhill runner, Smith has the ability to churn out tough yards, especially when the Yellow Jackets need to establish control of the game. Against a tough Clemson defensive line, Smith will need to be at his best to give Georgia Tech balance and keep the Tigers’ defense honest. The more Georgia Tech can establish the run, the easier it will be for King to execute the passing game. Smith’s ability to gain yardage on first and second downs will be key in setting up manageable third-down situations.
3. Jalen Huff (Linebacker)
On defense, Jalen Huff is one of the key players for Georgia Tech. A hard-hitting linebacker with great instincts, Huff will be tasked with stopping Will Shipley and limiting Clemson’s rushing attack. His ability to shed blockers and make tackles in space will be vital for Georgia Tech’s defense to keep Clemson’s offense from finding a rhythm. Huff’s leadership and awareness in the middle of the defense will help dictate how well Georgia Tech can defend against the Tigers’ high-powered offense.
Matchups to Watch
Clemson’s Offensive Line vs. Georgia Tech’s Defensive Line
One of the most intriguing matchups in this game will be the battle in the trenches. Clemson’s offensive line has shown signs of improvement, but they’ll face a tough test in Georgia Tech’s defensive line. The Yellow Jackets have a solid defensive front, and their ability to put pressure on Cade Klubnik will be critical in determining how well Clemson can execute its passing game. If Clemson can establish a solid push up front, they’ll be able to open up running lanes for Will Shipley and give Klubnik time to throw downfield.
For Georgia Tech, their defensive line will need to take advantage of any weaknesses in Clemson’s offensive line. If the Yellow Jackets can disrupt Klubnik’s rhythm and force him into uncomfortable situations, they’ll have a better chance of slowing down Clemson’s offense and making the game more competitive.
Clemson’s Secondary vs. Haynes King’s Passing Game
Another key battle will be Clemson’s secondary against Haynes King and the Georgia Tech passing attack. Clemson has one of the best secondaries in the ACC, with talented cornerbacks and safeties who can lock down receivers and prevent big plays. King’s ability to challenge that secondary with his arm and make accurate throws will be crucial for Georgia Tech to stay in the game. If King can connect on some deep passes or find mismatches in coverage, it could open up the game and give Georgia Tech some momentum.
However, if Clemson’s secondary can limit King’s success in the passing game and force him into mistakes, it will make it much harder for Georgia Tech to keep pace with the Tigers.
Keys to the Game
For Clemson to win, they’ll need to:
- Establish the Run: Will Shipley should be the focal point of Clemson’s offense, and their offensive line needs to generate push to open up running lanes. By establishing the run early, Clemson will be able to control the tempo and set up play-action opportunities for Klubnik.
- Pressure King: Clemson’s defense needs to get consistent pressure on Haynes King to force him into mistakes. With Myles Murphy and Ruke Orhorhoro leading the charge, Clemson has the ability to disrupt Georgia Tech’s passing game and create turnovers.
- Limit Turnovers: Clemson must take care of the football, as turnovers could give Georgia Tech a chance to capitalize and control the game. Klubnik will need to be efficient with his passes and avoid giving Georgia Tech any easy opportunities.
For Georgia Tech to win, they’ll need to:
- Control the Clock: If Georgia Tech can establish a strong running game with Dontae Smith and keep the ball out of Clemson’s hands, they’ll have a better chance of staying in the game.
- Contain Klubnik: Clemson’s offense runs through Cade Klubnik, so limiting his ability to make big plays through the air or on the ground will be key for Georgia Tech’s defense.
- Exploit Clemson’s Weaknesses: Georgia Tech needs to take advantage of any weaknesses in Clemson’s defense, whether that’s through mismatches in the passing game or exploiting certain areas in coverage.
How to Watch
- Date: January 14, 2025
- Time: 9:00 p.m. ET
- Location: Memorial Stadium, Clemson, SC
- TV Channel: ESPN
- Live Stream: ESPN app, Sling TV, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV
