Clemson has generally played exceptional defense in 2018, which is not surprising given all of the NFL-caliber talent that the Tigers have on that side, particularly up front. Clemson’s defense ranks 5th in S&P+ and its line ranks second nationally in havoc rate—it is highly disruptive, and that puts a lot of opposing offenses behind schedule.
Still, the Tigers have had issues in the secondary at times, and they rank just 70th in efficiency and 68th in big-play prevention on passing plays. They thrive anyway because opposing quarterbacks are completing less than half of their pass attempts.
NC State is uniquely suited for success on pass plays, what with its deep receiving corps, outstanding pass protection, and of course, because it has Ryan Finley.