CLEMSON FOOTBALL

Dan Scott: Clemson - Maryland Prediction

Dan Scott: Clemson - Maryland Prediction


by - Correspondent -

A tough one to take on the road last week for all involved. So the

Tigers - and the Magic Helmet - are looking to bounce back Saturday at Death

Valley.

 

Maryland (6-2) at Clemson (7-2)

 

When Clemson Has The Ball

Held to just 81 rushing yards vs. Virginia Tech, you get the idea Clemson's

offensive line and running backs are looking to regain their swagger this week.

Maryland's run defense has been shaky this season, and they've yet to face an in-conference

ground attack close to the one Clemson can bring - though don't forget they have played West Virginia. Still, don't be surprised if

the Tigers throw the ball a bit in the early going to try and get Will Proctor's

confidence heading upward. After struggling again last week - and facing

questions about his job for the first time this week - one would think the

fifth-year senior is chomping at the bit to show he can still be an effective

part of this offense.

ADVANTAGE - Clemson

 

When Maryland Has The Ball

Once upon a time - okay, as recently as just a couple of years ago - Ralph

Friedgen's offenses drove Clemson absolutely nuts. Usually it was because of a

quarterback with great mobility who could run and throw, allowing Friedgen's

option-style offense to run at maximum efficiency. Sam Hollenbach isn't exactly

that kind of quarterback, but he has become at least competent running The

Fridge's scheme. For Clemson, Gaines Adams and Co. need to get good pressure on

Hollenbach, and a run defense that was manhandled by Va. Tech last week needs to

rebound in a hurry.

ADVANTAGE - Clemson

 

Special Teams

Lost in Clemson's defeat at Virginia Tech was a special teams performance

that might have been the best all-around showing all season. Still, you know

you'll be holding your breath every time Maryland receives a kickoff. How long

has Terp punter Adam Podlesh been around anyway? Ten, 12 years?

ADVANTAGE - Even

 

Coaching

You always have to respect Ralph Friedgen and his offensive mind. But in

the last few years, at this stage of the season, Tommy Bowden has gotten the

best out of his team. After the loss to the Hokies, is another great November on

the horizon?

ADVANTAGE - Clemson

 

Bottom Line

Two years ago at Death Valley it was an ugly 10-7 Tigers' win. Last year,

it was two late touchdowns for a Clemson rally. This year? Probably won't need

the late heroics.

 

THE PICK

Clemson 38, Maryland 23

 
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