Dan Scott Prediction: Clemson at Maryland |
An easy week last Saturday for both the Tigers and me, good enough to get us both headed back in the right direction. Question is, have either of us really improved much? Let's find out. CLEMSON AT MARYLAND WHEN CLEMSON HAS THE BALL Will the running game disappear again, maintaining its almost week-on, week-off consistency? Or can the big boys up front, with Thomas Austin apparently solidifying the center position, keep Davis and Spiller running free? Maryland linebacker Henderson is the real deal, a player to be accounted for on every snap. Keep him occupied with the run, and Cullen Harper could have another big passing day. ADVANTAGE - CLEMSON WHEN MARYLAND HAS THE BALL The Terps are beat up on the offensive line, but as Tommy Bowden pointed out earlier this week it only takes five to play and Clemson isn't rushing the passer well at all. Since Jordan Steffy went down at quarterback, the Maryland offense has looked better under backup Chris Turner. Word is Steffy might be back for some snaps this week, and if he is that could bode well for Clemson. Still, Ralph Friedgen seems to find a way against the Tigers, especially late in games. And, seeing as how I expect this to be close coming down the stretch... ADVANTAGE - MARYLAND SPECIAL TEAMS Last week's performance vs. Central Michigan aside, I'm still not convinced all the problems are fixed. Friedgen's teams are usually solid in this area. ADVANTAGE - MARYLAND INTANGIBLES Jump on me if you want (and I know you will), but the Friedgen Factor always weighs heavily here. Pun only partially intended. He has had an inordinate amount of success against the Tigers. ADVANTAGE - MARYLAND BOTTOM LINE I struggled with this one for a long time. But I think in this case I need to stick to my preseason pick on this one. If I'm wrong, I'm sure I'll hear about it. And I'm prepared for it, one way or the other. THE PICK Maryland 21, Clemson 17
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