[FF40212]

Perhaps I shouldn't have used the words "blow out". I think those words may have been a little too much.

I will agree with your assessment that Florida and Alabama were games that UK wasn't able to compete in. However, and just being fair here, of UK's 7 wins they include games versus Miami of Ohio, UofL (see Kragthorpe's gone), Louisiana-Monroe, EKU, and Vandy. Granted, you also defeated UGA @ Athens (although they are down a bit), and Auburn @ their place. However, then you have losses to Mississippi State, the shamecocks, and UT (in OT)?

I'm saying that if you start comparing schedules (Clemson lost to Maryland!) it sort of sets you up for both good points and bad points. You have to take them both. You need to recognize that Clemson barely lost to TCU (in a BCS game), GT twice (in a BCS game). Turnovers killed us versus the shamecocks and looking past Maryland is my best guess on them?

I am saying this - Clemson's offense has improved steadily. Our defense struggled of late with some rushing attacks (most notable the triple-option of GT), however I don't think UK has quite that threat? Add in that Hartline may or not play and you are back to playing a freshman QB just like Clemson is.

As for Jacoby Ford, while he is quite the speedster, Xavier Dye is going to be a player plus our 2 tight ends (Palmer being the better of the 2).

Clemson needs to find it's identity again on defense. If/when that happens, I feel like (from watching both teams - and from judging both team's football strengths/weaknesses) Clemson is the better team. Could other things come into play? Surely. The game is at night. It could be cold? Players could return from injuries? It's 2 days after Christmas. These are kids playing football!

No excuses this time. I hope Clemson comes to play. I say that not only because I'm dropping way too much money to ride down and watch this game (plus stay in a hotel a few nights), but because I think Dabo Swinney has these Tigers primed and headed in a new direction. This would be a nice way for him to cap off his first full year as the Clemson Head Coach.