Clemson’s Offense vs Georgia Tech’s Defense
Clemson will be getting Deshaun Watson back at a perfect time. The Tigers will need to keep up with the high powered Tech offense on the scoreboard. Many think Watson may be rusty. He’s had 2 straight weeks of practice to get back in the flow. He will be fresh and not as beat up as others who haven’t missed time. The Jackets' Jamal Golden is good in the secondary and will make plays if Watson is rusty. Number 4 should be just fine and be at his normal form.
Watson could use a little help from the run game to make it easier on him. Wayne Gallman has been a 2nd half running back. If he could play well the entire game it will go a long way toward securing a win. The Oline has been very inconsistent and contribute to the run game struggles. Tech linebacker Jamal Golden leads the team in tackles and is a play-maker. Leaving him unaccounted for will be bad news for the Tigers.
Georgia Tech’s Offense vs Clemson’s Defense
Georgia Tech’s offense is led by QB Justin Thomas. He leads the team in rushing and is great through the air as well. Thus far, he has 14 touchdowns while throwing only 4 interceptions. He has teamed with receiver DeAndre Smelter to make a good duo. Thomas to Smelter will account for much of the Tech passing attach Saturday.
It will be critical for the Tiger front 7 to stay in position against the Jackets option offense. Grady Jarret has to set the tone on the interior. Vic Beasley and the ends will have to set the edge. Linebackers Stephone Anthony and Tony Steward have to be good all game. If any of these leaders on the front 7 are shaky Paul Johnson’s offense can light it up.
Special Teams
Special teams has turned into a strength for the Tigers. With the exception of Adam Humphries' muffed punt last week they have been solid. Ammon Lakip’s has developed into a very reliable kicker. Tech’s kicker Harrison Butker hasn’t. He has made 7 out of 12 attempts this season. He has a game winning field goal on his resume this year which though. In a game that’s likely to be close, these kickers could be the difference and Lakip has been more consistent.
X-Factor
Who controls the line of scrimmage? The Tiger offensive line has struggled all year. Can they get a run game going and give Watson time to throw the ball down field? On the other side of the ball Clemson is a strong as any team on the line. Can Georgia Tech consistently block well enough to keep them out of 3rd and longs?
Prediction
This game has the makings of a back and forth game that will come down to the wire. Both teams are in the hunt to make good bowl games. Both offenses have the potential to put up high scores. The difference Saturday will be with the Tiger defense. Tech has yet to face a team with Clemson’s caliber of defense and the Tigers should make enough plays to win. Clemson wins 31-27.
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