Clemson coach Dabo Swinney started at the top with South Carolina State.
In talking up the Tigers’ next opponent, Swinney hit on his respect for South Carolina State’s veteran coach, Buddy Pough, who’s compiled a 133-75 record in 19 seasons at his alma mater while leading the Bulldogs to at least a share of seven Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference titles. Swinney then complimented South Carolina State’s offense, particularly receiver Shaquan Davis, Wake Forest running back transfer Kendrell Flowers and dual-threat quarterback Corey Fields Jr., who accounted for more than 300 yards and three touchdowns in South Carolina State’s 42-41 loss to Alabama A&M last week.