The Clemson defense entered 2019 with what seemed like more question marks than answers. Gone were four starters and two key reserves off the defensive line, two starting linebackers and a starting cornerback. Most pundits predicted it would take the defense the entire season to jell and mature. The thought process was that the offense would be so good the defense would be allowed to have some growing pains.
The only pains so far have been inflicted on opposing offenses.
Louisville entered Saturday ranked 16th nationally in total offense and averaging over 37 points per game. Clemson held the Cardinals to just 263 total yards and Louisville didn’t score a touchdown on the first-team defense.