Appalachian State vs. Clemson: A Clash of Past and Present

As the Appalachian State Mountaineers prepare to face the Clemson Tigers on September 7th, it’s easy for Clemson fans to reminisce about their dominant 41-10 victory over the Mountaineers in 2015. However, those who only focus on the final score fail to recognize the significant changes both programs have undergone in the nearly ten years since that meeting.

The Evolution of Appalachian State

In 2015, Appalachian State was navigating its first full season in the FBS after transitioning from the FCS. The talent disparity between the two teams was evident, as Clemson boasted an impressive roster featuring 24 future NFL players, including standouts like Deshaun Watson, Shaq Lawson, Mackensie Alexander, and Hunter Renfrow.

Fast forward to the present day, and the Mountaineers have established themselves as a formidable force in the Sun Belt Conference. The current App State team bears little resemblance to the 2015 squad, with a wealth of talent and experience at every skill position on both sides of the ball.

Clemson’s Offensive Strategy

One intriguing storyline to watch is how Clemson’s offense, led by offensive coordinator Garrett Riley, will approach this matchup. Riley, who served as App State’s running backs coach in 2019 when the Mountaineers defeated both South Carolina and North Carolina, has intimate knowledge of the program’s strengths and weaknesses.

While some may expect Clemson to open up the playbook and exploit App State’s speed-oriented “Star” defense, I believe the Tigers would be wise to employ a power running game to wear down the Mountaineers. This approach could help neutralize App State’s defensive strengths and set the stage for a more balanced offensive attack.

App State’s Offensive Dilemma

Equally fascinating is how App State will choose to attack Clemson’s defense. In their upset victory over Texas A&M during the 2022 season, the Mountaineers employed a “keep away” strategy, dominating time of possession by a staggering margin of 41:29 to 18:31. This approach, coupled with App State’s having been an 18.5-point underdog to Texas A&M, highlights the team’s ability to defy expectations and control the game’s tempo.

The Mountaineers have the benefit of experience, with approximately 25 players from the 2022 Texas A&M game still on the roster, many in key positions. Will head coach Shawn Clark opt for a similar ball-control approach, or will he unleash a more aggressive, four or five-wide receiver attack to get his best playmakers on the field?

The answer may hinge on the performance of App State’s offensive line. While they provided excellent pass protection for quarterback Joey Agulair in their opener, the run blocking left room for improvement. This offensive line, while talented, is all new for this season. Against Clemson’s aggressive defensive front, establishing a consistent ground game will be crucial to opening up the passing attack and keeping the Tigers’ defense honest.

The Betting Line

Currently, the FanDuel Sportsbook has Clemson as a 17-point favorite over Appalachian State. While this may seem like a significant margin, it’s worth noting that App State thrives in the underdog role. Just ask the likes of Michigan, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Texas A&M. The Mountaineers’ experience and depth at key positions could make this a closer contest than the betting line suggests.

I’m not coming out and saying Appalachian State will win, but I am certainly saying they have a shot. And if you ask any good underdog who believes in their own abilities (like App State does), all they want is a shot.

A Game of Intriguing Storylines

This matchup between Appalachian State and Clemson is more than just a game; it’s a clash of past and present, a testament to the growth and evolution of both programs. With compelling narratives on both sides of the ball, from Garrett Riley’s familiarity with App State to the Mountaineers’ quest to prove themselves against another Power Five opponent, this game has all the makings of a must-watch event.

As the sun sets on Memorial Stadium on September 7th, fans of both teams will be treated to a fascinating battle of strategy, talent, and determination. No matter the outcome, one thing is certain: this game will be remembered for the intriguing storylines it brings to the forefront and the legacy it leaves in the annals of both programs’ histories.