Clemson’s Offense vs NC State’s Defense
Clemson’s offense showed much of its potential last week. They hope to carry over that momentum into this week’s game. Deshaun Watson has been spectacular the last few weeks. He has been super accurate and has been as poised as a 5th year senior in the face of pressure. This week NC State will likely game plan to prevent the big play. Watson will need not to force passes. He should take the easy passes and not force the issue.
State’s defense has not been very good giving up over 40 points per game. The thing that makes it worse is they have only played one opponent that is considered to have a good offense. The lone bright spot has been linebacker Jerod Fernandez. He leads the team in tackles and interceptions. He won’t be able to do enough to slow down the Tigers. Mike Williams, Artavis Scott, and Germone Hopper will look to continue their exceptional play against a weak defense.
NC State's Offense vs Clemson's Defense
NC State proved they can light up the scoreboard last week against FSU. The Tigers' offense managed only 17 points against the Noles(though it should have been more) while State put up 41 against the same D. They currently average over 40 points per game. The Pack is led QB Jacoby Brissett. He often extends plays with his feet allowing his receivers more time to get open. If Clemson doesn't keep him in the pocket, the Pack can score 40+ points easily.
Brissett has spread the ball around well. Bo Hines has been the go to receiver. He has a knack for getting open and catch the ball. Running back Matt Hayes is the team’s 2nd leading receiver. He causes match-up problems because of his versatility in the backfield and as a pass catcher. Shadrach Thornton is the leading rusher. He and Hayes are a tough duo to stop. Stephone Anthony will pay a huge role in stopping both. The bottom line is the Clemson D can’t play lax like they did in the 2nd half against UNC.
Special Teams
This is a broken record each weak but it seems as the Tigers hope that special teams is not a factor. Bradley Pinioin is an excellent punter and the only consistency with special teams. The Tigers have been unable to use the return game to change the field positon or score. That could cost them sooner or later. Fortunately, State doesn’t have many bright spots on special teams either. Hayes is involved in the return game and cause damage. The kickers on each team aren’t very consistent.
X-Factor
The majority of time the team that wins the turnover battle wins the game. This weekend that may not be the case. If Clemson finishes minus 1 on turnovers they should have enough fire power to win. NC State needs to 2 more turnovers than they have to win this weekend
Prediction
The Tigers may have to be a little more patient than usual but still should be able to hit the big play offensively. Look for the Clemson offense to go for the big play but check down to short passes when necessary. Defensively, The Tigers will want to prove that last week’s 2nd half performance was a fluke. Brissett will make plays but limiting those plays will be the key for Brent Venables’ defense. The Tigers should win comfortable. Clemson wins 52-34.
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