Sammy Brown isn’t ready to judge Clemson’s season by its two most disappointing nights.
With seven regular-season games remaining, the Tigers linebacker believes the work done before the season can still translate into a strong finish. Clemson entered its open date at 3-2 following a 41-13 loss to Miami, but Brown sees reasons to remain confident.
“I think the toughness that we have displayed in these first five games is a reflection of what we have done through the whole offseason,” Brown said. “What we did in the offseason has set us up to have an exciting rest of the year.”
That confidence comes with an acknowledgment that Clemson still has work to do, particularly on defense. Brown believes the group has made meaningful strides since the season-opening loss at LSU, though it hasn’t reached the level he wants.
“And we are not a complete unit, but the improvement that we have made this year is very encouraging,” he said.
The schedule provides an opportunity to turn that development into wins. None of Clemson’s remaining opponents are currently ranked, and the Tigers still have a chance to accomplish most of their preseason objectives.
Reaching the ACC championship game will require help, along with Clemson handling its remaining conference games. Beating South Carolina and winning the season finale also remain attainable goals.
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Brown said Dabo Swinney has kept those possibilities in view while demanding greater attention to the mistakes holding Clemson back.
“He has definitely done a great job of encouraging us,” Brown said. “He has also challenged us at the same time.”
For Clemson, the next stretch will determine whether that belief is supported by better results.
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This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: Clemson star linebacker Sammy Brown is happy with where the Tigers are