On Saturday, with a win, Clemson will break the record for consecutive home wins at Death Valley and tie their all-time home win streak record at 12. The Terps come in depleted by injury and struggling. They will need a few breaks to go their way if they hope to upset Clemson.
Clemson's Offense vs. Maryland's Defense
Clemson's offense will be facing a tough defense this weekend as Maryland is ranked 11th nationally in total defense. The Terps are led by linebackers Demetrius Hartsfield and Cole Farrand. Clemson will need to get Andre Ellington going early to force Maryland to bring their talented linebackers closer to the line of scrimmage opening up passing lanes. The
Tigers will also have to account for defensive end Joe Vellano as he leads the ACC in tackles for loss. Clemson will likely use a balanced attack but receivers Sammy Watkins and DeAndre Hopkins will have opportunities for big plays in the passing game.
Clemson's Defense vs. Maryland's Offense
Maryland has struggled offensively all season. The Terps are last in the ACC in points per game after being decimated by injuries. Maryland will rely heavily on a quarterback that was a scout team linebacker just a few weeks ago and has now been converted to QB, Shawn Petty. The previous 4 QBs have went down with injury. Malliciah Goodman and Corey Crawford should be able to pressure Petty as Maryland is 116th nationally, out of 120 schools, in sacks allowed. Also, star freshman Stefon Diggs will be out Saturday with an injury and leaves Maryland looking for a playmaker. Expect many Tigers to have big games defensively with some turnovers along the way.
Special Teams
On special teams, Clemson has a clear advantage on special teams especially with Diggs out. Maryland has struggled with kicking and punting. Also, Clemson has had a special teams return touchdown each of the last 3 games against Maryland and can certainly have another this year.
X-Factor
Turnovers could be a major factor in Saturday's game. If Maryland's defense can get 3 turnovers or more it can give their team a shot to win. Clemson just has to manage the game on offense and avoid giving the Terps' offense good field position. Likewise, the Maryland offense cannot afford to set up Clemson's high powered offense with good field position.
Prediction
Saturday's game is one Clemson should win easily but the have struggled with Maryland in years past. Last season, a 2 win Maryland team forced Clemson to have to come back to win. Expect Maryland to put up a decentfight early. But Clemson's offense is too good not to score and Maryland's offense is too bad to keep up with them. Clemson wins 41-13.
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