Clemson opened its national title defense with an emphatic 52-14 victory over Georgia Tech at home Thursday night.
Heisman Trophy contender Trevor Lawrence went 13-of-23 for 168 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions through the air for the top-ranked Tigers. Travis Etienne chipped in with 205 yards and three scores on the ground.
Clemson had to replace Clelin Ferrell, Dexter Lawrence, Christian Wilkins, Trayvon Mullen and Austin Bryant after they moved on to the NFL. Despite the departure of those key players, the Tigers held Georgia Tech to 294 yards of offense.
Clemson's Dominance the Biggest Hurdle in Trevor Lawrence's Heisman Campaign
Thursday's game was a worst-case scenario for Lawrence as he attempts to become Clemson's first Heisman winner, but it highlighted a few issues that could derail his candidacy.