Dan Scott: Clemson - UCF Prediction |
OFFENSE
UCF: The Golden Knights return a quarterback (Ryan Schneider) who finished ninth in the country in pass efficiency in 2000, and an offensive line which averages 317 pounds, topped off by senior right tackle Steve Edwards (6-foot-5, 350 pounds). The group can pass block, but running game is suspect. CLEMSON: A veteran offensive line, two 1,000-yard rushers (tailback Travis Zachery, quarterback Woody Dantzler) and a much-heralded rookie receiving crop have Tiger fans excited about the coming season. In 2000 Dantzler just missed becoming the first quarterback in NCAA history to throw for 2,000 yards (he finished with 1,872) and rush for another 1,000. EDGE: Clemson. DEFENSE UCF: The team's leading tackler (121) from a year ago, senior middle linebacker Tito Rodriguez, returns to lead the defense. But the Golden Knights lost over 200 tackles with the graduation of Damian Demps and Tony Hardman. CLEMSON: The Tigers also return leading tackler Chad Carson (156), and star safety John Leake has been the most impressive defensive player during preseason. Depth is a major concern for Clemson, with two true freshman filling key backup roles at defensive end and star safety. EDGE: Clemson, barely. SPECIAL TEAMS UCF: Senior place kicker Javier Beorlegui hit 77 percent of his field goal attempts a year ago, with a long of 48 yards. Beorlegui also averaged 40 yards per kick as the team's punter. CLEMSON: Sophomore Aaron Hunt has been impressive during camp, but the only real numbers to go on are last year's 10 field goals in 16 attempts. New punter Wyn Kopp has two years of experience kicking in the Southeastern Conference for Georgia, and has impressed coaches with his hang time. EDGE: UCF COACHING UCF: Fourth-year head coach Mike Kruczek (20-13) has the Golden Knights headed in the right direction, and is a disciple of Florida State coach Bobby Bowden. CLEMSON: Can you be more of a Bobby Bowden disciple than his son? EDGE: Clemson Don't expect this to be a cakewalk opener for Clemson. The 19-point spread put down by oddsmakers is a bit much, especially if the Tigers' defensive line can't pressure Schneider. If that's the case, expect a shootout. THE PICK: Clemson 45-30
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