Author : Evan Kohuth
The historic rivalry between Georgia Tech and Clemson will be played in this years’ Chick Fil-A kickoff game. “Both teams and their passionate fan bases will create an electric atmosphere when they compete on the national stage to begin the 2022 ACC season.” Said Gary Stokan, Peach Bowl inc CEO.
Clemson coming off a rather disappointing 2021 season looks to get back to their elite state this year. In order for the Tigers to get back to CFP form, Quarterback, DJ Uiagalelei is going to have to take a major step in the right direction and lead the Clemson offense this season. While throwing for more interceptions(10) than touchdowns(9) last year he”ll have to drastically improve those numbers for the Tigers offense to not be one more poor one in the country. Clemson does return all three of their running backs this year and will look for them to be the bright spot in that offense. Despite losing arguably the best DC in the country in Venables, the Tigers most likely will still have one of the best defenses in the country. The D-line unit is easily the strongest part of this team. Having first round talent in guys like Bryan Bresee and Myles Murphy will put the Tigers at the top of that list.
As for the Yellow Jackets, They will definitely be better this season. They have a stud at quarterback in Jeff Sims who can run and has two years of experience on him, he is set for a breakout year in 2022. Other than that, the offense was not great last year. Finishing 93rd in offense, yellow jackets offensive coordinator Chip Long, knows how to get things moving. Having weapons like a pro-level wideout in Malachi Carter and a stud at QB, the offense should look drastically improved this season. As for the defense, well, it was just straight up bad. Senior linebacker Ayinde Eley is a pretty good tackler leading the team in solo tackles last year but that was really it. They do have quite a few transfers coming to help improve the defense with former Old Dominion star pass rusher, Keion White, and getting major help in the secondary with Auburn transfer Eric Reed, Maryland transfer Kenny Bennett, Notre Dame transfer Derrick Allen, and Michigan transfer Myles Sims. This group looks to obtain more than just three interceptions the team had last year.
This game should be exciting for both teams with both looking drastically improved from their 2021 form. Look for this game on September 5th at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, kicking off at 8pm On ESPN.