Snap judgments as banged up Tigers survive Boston College

CLEMSON — Dabo Swinney said leading into Saturday’s game against Boston College that somehow, some way, the Tigers just needed to find a way to win a game.

Thanks to a stingy defense and four BT Potter field goals, Clemson did.

Swinney’s squad survived a scare from Boston College, holding on for a 19-13 victory on Homecoming.

The game played out much like last week’s matchup against NC State as the Tigers offense struggled most of the night but the defense kept Clemson in the game.

Clemson won, despite having several starters banged up. Defensive tackles Tyler Davis and Bryan Bresee and running back Will Shipley were already known to be out heading into the game.

Right guard Will Putnam was ruled out with a foot injury before kickoff. Tight end Braden Galloway went down in the first quarter and didn’t return. Fellow tight end Davis Allen was ejected for targeting in the first half. And starting receiver Justyn Ross left the game in the first half as well. He watched the second half in street clothes on the sideline.

Clemson now gets a much-needed bye week before traveling to Syracuse Friday, Oct. 15. Here are some quick takeaways from Saturday’s victory:

Tigers offensive line has best game

With Will Putnam out, Matt Bockhorst moved over from center to right guard and Hunter Rayburn played center. The move went well for Bockhorst and the rest of the offensive line. Clemson rushed for more than 200 yards, even without starting running back Will Shipley out.

Kobe Pace filled in and topped the 100-yard mark. The performance should give the Clemson offensive line and Pace some confidence moving forward.

DJ Uiagalelei continues to struggle

While Clemson’s offensive line should gain some confidence from the performance, Uiagalele’s confidence is clearly shook. He made some nice plays, for sure, but he also missed some easy throws, particularly in the second half.

He looked hesitant to throw the ball at times, even when receivers were open. That’s a clear indication of a lack of confidence.

Too much being asked of Clemson defense

The offense and even special teams put Clemson’s defense in bad spots Saturday night. Time and time again the defense stepped up, but at some point the offense has to take some pressure off of Brent Venables unit. Through five games that hasn’t happened yet.