One of the marquee non-conference games of the season is in Death Valley this week when Clemson plays host to Texas A&M.

In part because the Aggies had a narrow loss last season against the Tigers, and the Aggies are in their second year under Jimbo Fisher with an experienced quarterback, some believe this matchup could have an exciting finish.

However, Clemson is still more than a two touchdown favorite in the game between two top 12 teams.

On the SEC media teleconference, Fisher explained what makes Clemson QB Trevor Lawrence different outside of his passing ability, the Tigers’ championship confidence and what it takes to win:

  • On meeting Dabo Swinney: I think the first time I met him in Birmingham recruiting. We don’t have much interaction outside of ball but I have a lot of respect for him. When we were head coaches, obviously met more… I think he’s a great guy, always liked him and think he does a heck of a job.
  • How does Clemson look different? Confidence, you see the confidence after winning the championship. The wide receivers look very confident, their line looks bigger, defensively, they lost some guys but the guys they got look just as good… very physical, great returners, everyone touches the ball. very well-coached, Dabo has done a great job with his team.
  • On tackling Clemson: We feel we have tackled well but we know we are going to have to, this is a different level of guys. They are very dynamic, not only are do they have the ability to make you miss but they are strong. Even when you do tackle them, you have to get multiple guys to the ball… Their speed and agility make it tougher. Their receivers are huge, their backs are big. We will have our hands full.
  • On Trevor Lawrence: He has everything you want, physically but also mentality, he has the it factor… everyone talks about his arm but his ability to run and keep plays alive… he has all the tools.
  • On protecting the pocket: If he gets comfortable, you are in trouble. He is so tall, he’s tough to disrupt, he can see over everything… That will be critical.