Clemson Tigers College Football Pregame Quote, 12/27/2018

What’s the difference between the preparation this year versus last year? I would just say we have more senior leadership. All the guys are coming around us and making sure we’re keeping on track with our preparation and our focus. This isn’t, we should just be happy that we got here, not to be satisfied to get to the game which is a national championship.

Notre Dame should be ‚Äì they have skilled guys. This is a good test for you Saturday? We’re looking forward to it. It’s going to test our defense for sure. We think we’re ready. We don’t think we have any weaknesses they can exploit. We’re excited for this game.

Talk about how you defensively have rallied around what has taken place with Dexter [Lawrence]. We’ve tried to put our arms around him. He’s having a tough time with this decision, obviously. But he’s just really stepped into a vocal leadership role, and I think he’s doing a great job staying positive. And the defense has rallied around him and the rest of the guys.

What’s the one thing about Notre Dame that concerns you the most? They have a very balanced attack. They have a lot of skilled players and a good offensive line as well. You can’t select one game over another.

You guys have been fortunate enough with your success to travel around the country and play in monster games. Tell me about the first time you walked in this place. I was nervous. It feels brighter in here than outside. It was insane. It took me a while to stop looking at the Jumbotron. I was definitely nervous. I was happy to be able to practice in here beforehand.

When they bring Notre Dame in, how do you feel about their running backs and your ability to get on them and you said Notre Dame has a very balanced attack. Are you balanced enough to drop into coverage if you have to? Absolutely. I think I’ve been doing so all season. I get as much credit for that part of my game but I don’t think I’m ever a liability out there for coverage. I feel like I get out there and cover anybody. So I don’t really worry about that.

They’re quick when they come down. Do you think you can get a good pop on them and make them think twice? That’s what I’m looking forward to the most. I think it’s going to be a physical game, and that’s the kind of game we thrive in.