Devin Leary (QB – NC State) vs The Clemson Front Seven
28/47, 245 passing yards, one passing TD, one interception
Leary’s viability as a mid-round draft pick won’t be lost after the Clemson game, but it’s harder to see him as an earlier pick at this point. NC State’s QB made a number of rhythm throws to keep the Wolfpack in the game Saturday night. Ultimately, we saw his limitations. Clemson edge rusher Myles Murphy (1.5 sacks) brought pressure early and often forced Leary to feel the rush for most of the game. Leary hesitated multiple times when under duress and may have rushed a quick throw to the curl route on his lone interception of the night. It wasn’t a perfect situation – and the QB gave NC State a chance – but you expect more in order to earn early-round consideration.
Although defensive tackle Bryan Bresee didn’t suit up due to a non-football medical issue, the Tigers had no problem bringing pressure. Often an extra linebacker on the blitz was left unblocked. Sometimes this player was off-ball linebacker Trenton Simpson whose closing speed looked quick all night. Murphy was the main proponent of Clemson pressure making life difficult at times for NC State’s offensive rhythm.