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Five scenarios to follow when Clemson faces Texas A & M at 7 pm Saturday at College Station (ESPN):
How will Trevor Lawrence perform his first real test?
Clemson's first-year quarterback was impressive in the first game of the season against Furman, but it remains to be seen how he will behave in a tough road environment facing a SEC defense. Clemson coaches praised Lawrence's ability to thrive under pressure and perform well in big games. Now we will see if he is ready to make hype.
Will the Clemson receiver be open against the Texas A & M high school?
The Tigers have a deep and talented receiver group that will face a Texas A & M high school that is a force for the Aggies. Texas A & M have won three high school starts last year, including halfbacks Charles Oliver and Debione Renfro, as well as safety Derrick Tucker.
"Very good in high school. I think their safety is as good as we will likely see, "said Tigers coach Dabo Swinney. "They are really really talented players in safety. I would say that all four high school leavers will probably play in the NFL. It's easy enough to see that. They have size and length.
How will Clemson's quarterback situation be managed?
Kelly Bryant and Lawrence each played five sets in the first game against Furman. The Tigers had an easy win against the Paladins, and it was obvious from the start that Clemson could succeed with either quarterback in the game. This will not necessarily be the case this weekend at College Station. The battle of the quarter could be decided for the future this week if one quarter plays much better than the other. The Tigers entered Week 3 in 2014 in a similar situation when young Deshaun Watson beat veteran Cole Stoudt and took over as starter.
Can the Texas A & M offensive line slow down Clemson's first front?
Clemson is arguably the best defensive lineman in the country, and the group loves nothing more than playing big games in marquee games. Christian Wilkins, Clelin Ferrell and Austin Bryant went back to school to do something special. They can take a big step forward by leading the Tigers to a Texas A & M win in what could be the toughest event of the season by Clemson. The Aggies have an experienced offensive line with four starters back, but Wilkins, Ferrell, Bryant and Dexter Lawrence are a handful for a five-star beginner.
Can Clemson handle the big stage?
The Tigers have flourished in big games in recent years, including easily beating Louisville and Virginia Tech with College GameDay in town last season. College GameDay will be back on stage for Saturday's event. It will be a unique challenge for Clemson, as the Texas A & M Stadium has more than 100,000 people. Lane Stadium at Virginia Tech and Cardinal Stadium in Louisville hold less than 70,000 spectators. It will be the biggest crowd Clemson has ever played, as the Tigers have never played with 100,000 spectators. Clemson will have to face the win, as will the preparation of the game with College GameDay in town.
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