On Saturday, Clemson will face off against Ball State for the first time since 2002. Clemson will likely face a tougher Cardinal team than they did in 2002 when Ball State only scored 7 points. The Tigers could be challenged facing Ball State's balanced offense.
Clemson's offense vs. Ball State's Defense
Ball State gave up some points last week against Eastern Michigan yet held them under 186 yards passing. The Cardinals did struggle against the run giving up 5.5 yards per carry and could have a hard time stopping Andre Ellington if they perform like they did last week. BSU will need contributions from their 2 big conference transfers, Jon Newsome(Ohio State) and Brandon Newman(Notre Dame), to have any hope of slowing the Clemson rushing attack. The secondary isn't very strong and Tajh Boyd should be able to get the ball downfield.
Clemson's defense vs. Ball State's Offense
Ball State has a very underrated offense starting with their offensive line. State's starting lineman had a total of 115 starts among them coming into the season, more than any team in the country. Also, the average weight for the Oline is over 305 pounds, that's more than Clemson's starting line. They have been able to open up wholes and started off the season paving the way for sophomore running back, Jahwan Edwards, to rush for 200 yards last week while scoring 3 TDs against conference foe, Eastern Michigan. Ball State will likely try to develop the run game early and control the clock after seeing Auburn have success rushing against Clemson. The Cardinals also are balanced as QB Keith Wenning is starting for the 3rd year in a row and is a dependable passer.
Special Teams
Both Clemson and Ball State have experienced kickers and punters so the kicking game should not be a huge factor. Ball State has Jamill Smith as a returner who has good vision and is quick. He could change the field easily but so can Clemson's return men, whoever they choose.
X-Factor
How will Clemson's defensive line fair against Ball State's big defensive line. Clemson struggles against the run and do not have proven pass rushers. If the Dline for the Tigers can't improve, Ball State has the offensive weapons to score at anytime on the Tigers.
Prediction
Most Clemson fans are hoping for a blowout but the Tigers could be in for a battle. If Clemson continues its shaky play on defense, this game could turn into a shootout. Ultimately, it will be a tall task for the MAC team to match Clemson's highly skilled offense and Clemson's D should be able to manage against BSU. It might be close after a quarter or 2 but the Tigers should be able to win relatively easy. Clemson wins 45-19.
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