It wasn't the resounding statement it wanted to make, but No. 2 Clemson (1-0) came away from its trip to Jordan-Hare Stadium a winner after registering a closer-than-expected 19-13 win over Auburn (0-1).

The Clemson Tigers remain a major factor in this year's College Football Playoff race, but questions emerged after their underwhelming performance Saturday night. The offense failed to establish a rhythm, but on the other side of the ball, their young defense stepped up in a tough environment and shut down Auburn's offense.

Gus Malzahn, on the other hand, could be staring down the barrel of a long season if his offense can't show some dramatic improvements. The defense showed up in a big way,...

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