Thursday night in death Valley Georgia Tech comes looking to keep their ACC title hopes alive. Clemson will be looking to solidify themselves as a BCS contender. The games between these two always seems to be tough and always seem to be close. This year could be the same.
Clemson's Offense vs Georgia Tech's Defense
The Georgia Tech
defense is better than in the past few seasons. They are 12th in the nation in total defense and 10th nationally versus the run. The Jackets haven't had just one player blowup with tackles. They've relied onconsistent performances, mostly by their 3 starting linebackers. Clemson will have to open up the running with the pass. Look for Tajh Boyd to hit his receivers on quick passes to start the game. Quick passes can act as substitute to the run game but also open up the running lanes as well. The Tigers will also have to account for DE Jeremiah Attaochu. He is a menace to opposing offenses and could pressure Boyd. The quick passing game will also help negate Attaochu but Clemson will likely double-team him as well to get the ball deep. Getting the ball deep will be key because Georgia Tech's secondary has been suspect.
Georgia Tech's Offense vs Clemson's Defense
The Georgia Tech offense has been impressive this year. When the Jackets' option attack is clicking it has caused problems for Clemson in the past. Vad Lee at QB is the unquestioned leader. The sophomore quarterback has done an excellent job and making the right reads in their option run attack. David Sims has done the grunt work up the middle and has to be accounted for on every play. Robert Godhigh has been able to get big yards off the edge. He averages over 11 yards per rush. Leaving him unaccounted for will be a big mistake. The Clemson D line will play a vital role in stopping the option attack, most notably Grady Jarret. If he plays big Clemson should do well. The Tigers will need to hold Tech to a few yards on first and second down getting them in passing situations on third down. Vad Lee completes under 50% of his passes.
Special Teams
Special teams should be a big advantage for Clemson. Georgia Tech's Harrison Butker, a freshman, has struggled hitting only five of eight field goals. Clemson, as always, can rely on Chandler Catanzaro. Tech also hasn't had anyone have success returning kicks while Adam Humphries has been doing great job recently for the Tigers.
X-Factor
Third-down conversion will be a key factor in the outcome of the game. Georgia Tech is fourth in the nation in third-down conversions. Clemson will need to get them off the field as quick as possible to prevent them from having long drives. The Georgia Tech D has also been good on third downs. The Tigers will need to be able to convert on third-down themselves to help control time of possession.
Prediction
Clemson, who is playing their first home Thursday night home game in 10 years, will look to get off to a quick start. Georgia Tech has weapons to give Clemson fits. The game should be close into the third-quarter but look for the Tigers to pull away at the end. Clemson wins 41-27.
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