Third-ranked Clemson got off to a slow start offensively with just 77 total yards in the first quarter against No. 2 Ohio State in the Fiesta Bowl and fell behind 16-0 midway through the second quarter.
The Tigers struggled to find an identity on that side of the ball after their primary weapon, Tee Higgins, exited the game on the first drive. Ohio State also managed to shut down Clemson’s run game with Travis Etienne.
The Buckeyes’ defensive talent forced Clemson to get creative on offense. Co-offensive coordinator Tony Elliott knew Ohio State would limit the run game, so the Tigers schemed for it.