ESPN analysts think Clemson is better than Ohio State |
The Clemson football team (11-1, 7-1 ACC) was ranked the #3 overall seed in the College Football rankings released by the College Football Playoff committee on Tuesday night on ESPN.
The College Football Playoff Committee chose Alabama (#1 seed), Ohio State (#2 seed), Clemson (#3 seed) and Washington (#4 seed) as the four teams projected in the playoff. ESPN analysts Desmond Howard and David Pollack think that Ohio State is rated very high at #2 overall. "I'm thinking Ohio State is the third-best team in the country based on what I've seen the last two weeks," Howard said during ESPN's CFB ranking show. "Two weeks ago they played Michigan State up in East Lansing. It wasn't obvious that the Buckeyes were the best team on the field that afternoon. They barely got by with a one-point victory because Michigan State's Coach Dantonio decided to go for two, why, I have no idea. The following week, it took them double overtime to beat Michigan in a game that most people think that Michigan outplayed Ohio State." Pollack agreed that the Buckeyes are overrated compared to Clemson. "Maybe even No. 4 if they're not a conference champion and the committee takes that into account, and that's something they put a premium on," Pollack said. "I don't think Ohio State is the second-best team. How we measure this is - Who can beat Alabama? I think Clemson has the best chance. Clemson's offense has firepower. Do they turn the football over? Absolutely. ... I think that Clemson right now, with the firepower, with the defense, with the offense combined I think they have the best shot to beat Alabama. Hence, I think they should be the No. 2 team in the country." The latest Vegas projection has Ohio State as a one-point favorite against Clemson in a possible future playoff matchup.
Upgrade Your Account
Unlock premium boards and exclusive features (e.g. ad-free) by upgrading your account today.
Upgrade Now
