Clemson Iowa State Bowl Game Prediction

Dec 29, 2021, 9:32 AM

Clemson defense versus Iowa State offense:

This is by far the most interesting match-up. Purdy (QB) is tricky to contain and makes something out of nothing over and over again. Still, the Iowa State OL isn't anything to write home about. They have a decent WR in Hutchinson who might just be the best WR on the field. Without their star running back, Hall, they have just three players to really worry about: Hutchinson (WR), Purdy (QB), and Kolar (TE). Kolar is a really, really good player. I expect us to get 3 or 4 sacks this game and force Purdy into at least one bad decision. I also expect him to escape a few times and find Hutchinson/Hall for some big plays. When I watch this offense I think of Wake Forest with a better TE. Wake would have probably scored 30 on us without the TOs. I suspect the same thing will happen here. I would count on Iowa State scoring about 24 points turning the ball over at least once probably twice.

Clemson offense versus Iowa State defense:

This is a great match-up for Iowa State. They truly make you earn it slowly down the field. This is obviously not our strength. I hate to pour it on DJ but he is just not accurate enough for this assignment. The good news is that I think our OL can open up holes for Ship, Pace, and Mafa. I think we can move the chains on the ground and benefit from good field position/ TOs this game. I think we score 24 points as well on offense. The defense is solid but nothing like the media is pumping them up to be.

Special teams:

This will be the difference in the game in my opinion. If you listen to the Iowa State fans, they will tell you that special teams have cost them at least 3 games this year. Their punt return and kick-off teams are a disaster. I think Ship takes one back or at the very least we benefit from super good field position all day.

Intangibles: Wes is looking to make a statement here. His public speaking ability is obviously not a reason why Dabo hired him. Imagine your first big project after your first big promotion. That dude is going to nerd out. There is a reason they say the new broom sweeps the cleanest. I think Steeter will not have to do anything fancy here so I expect to see a lot of running in this game.

Final prediction:

Clemson 31 and Iowa State 24