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Clemson to be without multiple defensive starters vs. Virginia Tech, per report
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Clemson will be without a couple of key defensive starters on Saturday against Virginia Tech, per a report.
Defensive lineman Peter Woods and DeMonte Capehart are both confirmed to be unavailable this week, according to Chapel Fowler. Three other key players have also been ruled out for this week’s game against the Hokies: defensive back Shelton Lewis, wide receiver Tyler Brown and offensive lineman Collin Sadler.
Between previously known + now confirmed absences, Clemson will be missing these players vs. VT:
Starting DE Peter Woods
Starting DT DeMonte Capehart
DB Shelton Lewis
WR Tyler Brown
OL Collin Sadler— Chapel Fowler (@chapelfowler) November 9, 2024
Woods is a massive loss for a Clemson team that may struggle to stop the run on Saturday vs. Virginia Tech. Woods is widely regarded as one of the most disruptive defensive linemen in the ACC.
Stopping the run is a big focus for this week’s game vs. Virginia Tech. The Tigers are reportedly moving to a 3-linebacker formation on Saturday in an effort to slow down a strong Virginia Tech rushing attack.
With Woods out, Clemson’s defensive end rotation is exceptionally thin. Besides standout edge TJ Parker, Clemson will have a group that includes Jaheim Lawson, Cade Denhoff, AJ Hoffler and Caden Story on Saturday against Virginia Tech. Excluding Parker, that group has combined for just 3.5 tackles for loss so far this season.
Kickoff is set for 3:30 p.m. ET on Saturday afternoon.
Spenser is a news editor for Saturday Down South and covers college football across all Saturday Football brands.
