When asked how he was feeling following Saturday’s 56-35 victory over rival South Carolina, Clemson defensive coordinator Brent Venables paused, took a breath and said, “It was painful.”
It was painful. It was painful to watch.
Clemson’s proud defense, which came into its rivalry game with the Gamecocks leading the nation in yards allowed per play, yards per rush and scoring defense, gave up 600 yards to South Carolina. It was the most yards Clemson has allowed in a game since it allowed 667 to Florida State in 2012.
“I was disappointed with our performance tonight, but not with everyone,” Venables said.