"If he's Superman, we're going to be Kryptonite": Revisiting when Deshaun Watson and Lamar Jackson set the college football world on fire

Louisville v Syracuse
Lamar Jackson playing for Louisville

Deshaun Watson and Lamar Jackson are two quarterbacks that set the college football world on fire during their run at the NCAA level.

The college football world witnessed one of the most thrilling encounters in its history when the two quarterbacks came out against each other. This was in the Louisville vs Clemson matchup in an AAC conference game in 2016.

The Jackson-Watson Anticipation

Both teams boasted an impressive record heading into the game. They were both undefeated so far in the college football regular season. This created much anticipation among football enthusiasts who were eager to witness the epic showdown.

The prospect of Deshaun Watson and Lamar Jackson locking horns in a football game was palpable. Both quarterbacks have exhibited their superhuman abilities in college football with their electrifying plays, making the tie come with tons of expectations.

Both teams had the best preparation for the battle to keep the unbeaten streak. Without a doubt, both coaches had the opposition’s quarterback in mind. For Clemson's Dabo Swinney, the message to his defense on the dynamic Lamar Jackson was simple:

“If he’s Superman, we’re going to be Kryptonite.”

Evidently, Swinney was aware of the task ahead in facing the quarterback, the eventual winner of the Heisman Trophy that season. However, he took the time to prepare his defense and craft a plan to undermine the creativity of the Louisville signal-caller.

The Louisville-Clemson Showdown Analysis

The game began with a flurry of offensive fireworks as both teams traded blows in a back-and-forth battle. As expected, Lamar Jackson showcased his electrifying skills, speed, agility, and arm strength, which created loads of problems for Clemson's defense.

Clemson's Deshaun Watson also responded with orchestrated precision drive, demonstrating his poise and leadership. The Tigers' defense also exhibited its championship pedigree against the high-flying Louisville offense, holding strong when it mattered.

The game lived up to its billing, as the two talented signal-callers put on a show for the ages. Watson threw for 306 yards and five touchdowns, while also rushing for 91 yards. Jackson, true to form, accounted for 457 total yards and three touchdowns in the exhilarating matchup.

In the end, the Clemson Tigers emerged victorious in the tie with a 42-36 scoreline, stealing a win late in the game.

The clash between the two college football heavyweights lived up to the hype, providing fans with an unforgettable evening of thrilling gridiron action.

Quick Links