Gwinnett Daily Post

CLEMSON, S.C. -- Anthony Autry, a true freshman from Norcross, got his first start of the season and it didn't take him long to get into the flow.

On its second possession, Georgia Tech quarterback Tevin Washington threw a strike to Autry on the right sideline and he turned it into a 53-yard pass, the team's third-longest pass of the season.

Autry (6-2, 173) replaced Darren Waller in the starting lineup. Waller had a critical fumble after a reception in last week's loss to Middle Tennessee State.

Autry has been gradually gaining favor with the Tech coaching staff. He showed good hands and athleticism in training camp and plays with a certain toughness that is admired by the staff. Autry played in the first five games and entered the Clemson game with one catch for 19 yards, which came a week ago.

Awtrey is one of four true freshman to play for the Yellow Jackets this year, joining defensive lineman Adam Gotsis, defensive back D.J. White and punter Ryan Rodwell.

Clemson lacks Gwinnett players -- for now

Next year the Clemson roster will be dotted with numerous players from Gwinnett County, including the state's No. 1 prospect, Robert Nkemdiche. This year the only Gwinnettian is George Johnson, a freshman running back from Loganville. Johnson has appeared in only one game this season and does not have a rushing attempt.

Thre are a pair of Rockdale County players on the roster. Grady Jarrett is a sophomore from Heritage High School who starts at defensive tackle and Garry Peters is a sophomore reserve defensive back from Rockale County High School. Jarrett had five tackles, one for loss, and recovered a fumble, the first of his career. Peters had three tackles.

Miscellaneous

The No. 40 jersey was worn by linebacker Chris Crenshaw on Saturday. Crenshaw, a junior from Louisville, became the first underclassman to be chosen for the honor. The jersey is worn as a tribute to Julian Burnett, who had his career end with a neck injury at the Sun Bowl. The jersey has been worn by T.J. Barnes, Rod Sweeting, Tevin Washington, Tyler Morgan and Izaan Cross. . . . Clemson's Josh Watson blocked a field goal in the fourth quarter. It was the first block for the Tigers since 2010 against South Carolina.