Clemson lineman respects but isn't daunted by opener with SEC defense

Bockhorst has logged over 1,300 snaps with 13 starts over 40 games. (ACC photo/Grant Halverson)Clemson redshirt senior offensive lineman Matt Bockhorst didn't mince his words on Thursday at the ACC Kickoff when asked about the narrative surrounding SEC defenses.

“If SEC defenses are above everyone else, I want you to explain to me how we put up 44 on Alabama in the Natty,” the Cincinnati, Ohio native said, referring to the 44-16 title game win over the Crimson Tide in 2018. “Yeah, quote that one,” Bockhorst added with a smile.

The narrative around college football for the last decade has been that the SEC has had the best defenses compared to the other Power Five leagues. While the SEC has…