theSCOUTING Report: Clemson

October 1, 2026 -

Our #4 Miami Hurricanes (4-0, 2-0 ACC) will travel to Clemson, SC this Saturday evening to take on the Clemson Tigers (3-1, 2-0 ACC) at Death Valley.

This report will examine the Tigers’ strength and weakness after four games into the season.

OVERVIEW:

Clemson is a member of the Atlantic Coast Conference. After a brutal opening season loss, the Tigers have righted the ship with three consecutive wins.

OFFENSE:

Clemson runs a Pro-style offense that has struggled this year so far. They are starting a young and inexperienced quarterback(Tait Reynolds) and their offense line is a major weakness.

The Tigers average 21.0 points per game (15th in ACC). Their offense has averaged 314.0 yards per game (17th in ACC), with 155.8 passing yards per game and 158.3 rushing yards per game. The offensive line has surrendered 11 sacks so far this season.

Since taking over the starting role, Quarterback Tait Reynolds has thrown for 521 yards, going 54 of 84 attempts (64.3%) with 1 touchdown and two interceptions. Reynolds is dual-threat, rushing for 83 yards.

Clemson’ leading rusher is RB Gideon Davidson with 346 yards (5.9 yards per carry) and three touchdowns. The Tiger receivers have been relatively solid with T.J. Moore the leader with 21 receptions for 196 yards and one touchdown. Probably the most talented receiver so far has been Bryant Wesco with 16 receptions and 163 yards. Wesco is a dangerous deep threat. However, the Tigers’ offensive line hasn’t given Reynolds much time to impact vertically.

DEFENSE:

On defense, Clemson runs a 4-3 base defense that gives up 22.0 points per game (8th in ACC). The Tigers are led by safety Corey Myrick (35 tackles), linebacker Sammy Brown (33 tackles), safety Jerome Carter (29 tackles) and safety Ronan Hanafin (24 tackles, .5 sack). DE Will Heidt leads the defensive front with 12 tackles and 4 sacks.

BOTTOM LINE:

Death Valley is a tough revenue to play in, especially at night. But the Tigers are not the same Tigers as in the past. Their strength is their defense, especial the front seven. Their weakness is their offensive line and a talented but inexperienced quarterback.

Miami should handle Clemson, but Dabo will make it a tough win for Miami. The Canes are a match-up problem for the Tigers.

Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET, with coverage on ABC-TV and WQAM radio.

GO CANES!