Clemson’s Boyd ready for Troy as starting QB

CLEMSON, S.C. (AP) — Clemson’s Tajh (tahzh) Boyd has a goal in mind for his first game as starting quarterback: hearing the cannon fired in celebration for most of the day when Troy visits Death Valley.

Boyd knows that likely means the Tigers are scoring and he’s made a successful debut when they open the season Saturday.

Boyd takes over for Kyle Parker, who left after two seasons to play pro baseball in the Colorado Rockies organization. Boyd played seven games as a freshman last year and saw action in the season’s final two games after Clemson fell behind by large margins.

Boyd says he’s worked harder than in his first two seasons to prepare for this chance. He’s also learning a new offense under new coordinator Chad Morris.