Hello everyone and welcome to my blog. If this is your first time here, I blog about college athletics (esp. Clemson University) and high school athletics. I also blog about my family's endeavors, friends, and my spiritual walk with Jesus Christ. All of the above, from a Lady's point of view!!
I can't believe week one of college football has arrived and passed. We made the decision as a family to enjoy this one from home with the garage crew and not fight that Georgia Dome mass exodus. LOL. Don't get me wrong, I was thrilled we were asked to play in the Kick off game and I know a lot of my friends made the trip. I am also certain they had a good time, so thanks Atlanta!
I was thrilled with the outcome of this game, Auburn is a very good team. They are physical and play very smartly. Their kicking game is outstanding. I am relieved this is our last meeting with Auburn in the regular season. Enough close games is enough! We will take the 2 wins we have against them during this 3 game stand and think back of what if in our overtime loss to them during their National Championship run a few years ago.
The negative thing about this game was the absence of Sammy Watkins, the best wide receiver and special teams player in the nation. Yes, I truly believe this. I have seen Sammy do some things that make a direct outcome on winning the game. Sammy was suspended for 2 games, this one against Auburn and next week's home opener against Ball State. All of that being said, let me be clear, Dabo made the right decision, you make a bad decision personally, there have to be consequences. You've let yourself and your team down, not to mention your family. The great part about this punishment is Sammy has changed his life around, confessing Jesus Christ as Lord and being baptized a few weeks ago. He has also done all the work required of him to become a part of this team again. I have had the opportunity to hug on Sammy lately and let me clarify, this young man is special, he made a mistake, let's move on.
The positives of this game consist of a very nice offensive effort, Nuk Hopkins was on fire and caught a record breaking 13 receptions. It was funny when some friends looked at me during the game and said, "Sammy who?" I said very funny, but seriously, Nuke had a great game, along with a healthy Andre Ellington, and the leaner and meaner Tajh Boyd. Early in the game, I looked at everyone and said, "Boys and girls, we have a running, scrambling quarterback!". No one deserves it more than Tajh. A kid who puts in extra time always at practice, meetings, and game book memorization. Not to mention his calm demeanor and politeness.
Our defense did all right. We had a few blown coverages, left some receivers wide open that cost us, but hey with our new coordinator and brand new system, all in all we looked aggressive and played extremely hard.
What stood out the most and is the most encouraging is the condition of our players. Wow, in the words of Dabo, we could have played a 5th quarter. Also second to that, our offensive line did a fantastic job protecting Tajh and making holes for Andre. I was so happy for these guys who don't get a lot of credit over the season.
So, as I await the season opener at home, the Mom in me really looks forward to taking a friend of mine, Kelci Avery up with us for the first time. She is a high school senior and has narrowed her college choices to Clemson and NC State.
I'll let you know what she says about the game day atmolsphere...I personally think she'll see there is something in these hills!
Go Tigers!!
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