Auburn Football: Post-Spring Q&A with Rubbing the Rock on Clemson Matchup

Jan 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) runs against Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Geno Matias-Smith (24) in the second quarter in the 2016 CFP National Championship at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports /

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Apr 9, 2016; Clemson, SC, USA; Clemson Tigers head coach Dabo Swinney looks on during the first quarter of the spring game at Clemson Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports /

We know how demoralizing losing to Alabama can be, where there any signs of letdown this spring after the Championship Game?

If anything this team seems more focused than they ever have been. They understand that they were only a few plays away from winning the National Championship and that has built a fire under everyone to get better this off-season.

Dabo does a great job refocusing his team, but leaders like Ben Boulware, Deshaun Watson, Wayne Gallman, and plenty others make it easier on him to keep the team mentally and physically prepared.

Another interesting thing about the Alabama loss is the fact that Clemson gained more respect from National pundits in the loss to Bama than they did in the 14 wins they had leading up to the National Championship game. No one thought the Tigers would match up with the Crimson Tide, but Clemson basically did whatever they wanted to on offense, and although the defense missed assignments, the overall feeling was positive after the loss.

Next: Deshaun Watson

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