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Last week, LSU Tigers athletic director Joe Alleva and head coach Les Miles held a press conference with Chick-Fil-A executives to promote the Dec. 31 bowl game against the Clemson Tigers. At the presser, Miles spoke highly of his opponent, especially dynamic quarterback Tajh Boyd:
"I think he's a very talented quarterback with a very strong arm. They have a very capable receiving core, and there are big plays in that receiving core. He has the ability to move his feet, run and extend plays. He was named All-American for a reason, and it's certainly evident when you watch his film."
After a spectacular sophomore campaign in 2011, Boyd has had an ever better season in 2012. The junior has thrown for 3,550 yards on 66.6 percent passing with 34 touchdowns and 13 interceptions. Boyd has also added 492 yards and nine touchdowns on the ground.
Boyd's favorite target this year has been DeAndre Hopkins, who has caught 69 passes for 1,214 and 16 touchdowns. Sammy Watkins is second on the team with 57 catches for 708 yards, while Brandon Ford is second in touchdown receptions with eight.
Clemson's 13th-ranked passing offense will be a tough test for a LSU defense that has been stout all season long. LSU's defense is ranked 20th in the country in passing yards allowed per game.