Dan Scott Prediction: Maryland vs Clemson |
QUARTERBACK
Charlie Whitehurst's engine looks to be sputtering to a start after the last couple of weeks. Maryland's Joel Statham almost lost his job to freshman Jordan Steffy this week. ADVANTAGE - Clemson RUNNING BACK The tandem of Duane Coleman and Reggie Merriweather looked good against Utah State. The question is can they step it up against better competition? The Terps are looking for playmakers at this spot. ADVANTAGE - Clemson WIDE RECEIVER Is Michael Collins an emerging story, or a one-time thing? Again, Maryland needs playmakers here, but some of that is due to poor quarterback play. ADVANTAGE - Even OFFENSIVE LINE The legend of Barry Richardson is beginning to grow. Folks are getting called out of offices to see blocks he's made on tape. ADVANTAGE - Even RUN DEFENSE Clemson held Utah State to minus 20 yards rushing last week. But consider the competition. They've stopped very little else so far this year. ADVANTAGE - Maryland PASS DEFENSE If recent history holds true, expect the Terps to play press man coverage combined with a lot of blitzes. For Clemson, Statham's struggles could lead to turnovers. ADVANTAGE - Even SPECIAL TEAMS This category is virtually even. The one difference here could be at place kicker, where Jad Dean has one official career attempt, while Maryland's Nick Novak is among the nation's best. ADVANTAGE - Maryland THE PICK Hard to pick against the Fridge until the Tigers beat him once... Maryland 17, Clemson 13
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