“ I think it’s more mental than physical,” Troy defensive end Junior Gnonkonde, who played three years in the ACC – Clemson’s conference, said. “It doesn’t matter whether big or small. You have to come focused and ready to play.”
Playing against the No. 2 team in the nation – one that finished runner-up to Alabama for the national champion – can be an imposing task. Not only are the Tigers good, but they play in front of more than 80,000 fans and have several traditions that make the university a must-visit for any college football fan.
“ It’s one of the most awe-inspiring stadiums in college football,” Troy defensive coordinator Vic Koenning, who coached at Clemson for four seasons, said.