Dan Scott: Clemson - FSU Prediction |
OFFENSE
Clemson's offensive production, at least total yards per game, has increased every week. But can it couple that production with enough points to win in Tallahassee? It will be a tough go, to be sure. But if quarterback Willie Simmons can continue to cut down mistakes and, at the same time, continue to increase his playmaking, the Tigers have a shot. The Tigers must not only run successfully, but must find a way to throw the ball downfield with some effectiveness. Meanwhile, Florida State's offense hopes to prove its ineffectiveness last Thursday night had more to do with the weather than with Louisville's defense. Quarterback Chris Rix has all his receivers healthy this year, and running back Greg Jones is a load at 248 pounds. Yet even with a highly-rated offensive line, the FSU offense really hasn't set the world on fire. ADVANTAGE: Even DEFENSE The pressure for success on the defensive side of the ball rests mostly on Clemson's front four. Can they stop the run? Can they pressure Rix? Will defensive tackle Nick Eason play, and if so how much? Can his replacements, Eric Coleman and Todd McClinton, provide capable support? And then this question: Can the secondary continue its remarkable turnaround from last year? For the Seminoles, rumblings that the team speed - especially in the linebackers and secondary - was a step slow appeared to be justified against Louisville? But, again, was that due in part to the weather? Regardless, there appears to be an opportunity for Clemson to have some success against the FSU secondary, which would be a switch from past years. ADVANTAGE - Even SPECIAL TEAMS This is the kind of stage on which the Clemson special teams need to assert themselves. Punter Wynn Kopp must avoid a repeat of his performance against Georgia, the last time the Tigers played under the bright lights of national television. And given an opportunity, Aaron Hunt must prove he can make the big kick against the big teams in the clutch. The Seminoles historically are aggressive in all facets of their kick coverages, which makes them vulnerable to Clemson's assortment of fakes. ADVANTAGE - Florida State COACHING Until Tommy beats Bobby, you have to give this category to the old man. Besides, he's already on record as saying his team will be "mad" when they take the field tonight. If he's correct, look out. ADVANTAGE - Florida State THE LOWDOWN With 11 days to prepare, Clemson is as ready as it will ever be for Florida State. But somehow, someway, something always seems to go wrong in Tallahassee for the Tigers. THE PICK Florida State 38, Clemson 31 Dan Scott covers Clemson University for the Florence Morning News. He also hosts SportsTalk from 10 a.m.-Noon, Monday-Friday, on WCCP-Fm, 104.9. Click here for Dan Scott's SportsTalk discussion board.
Upgrade Your Account
Unlock premium boards and exclusive features (e.g. ad-free) by upgrading your account today.
Upgrade Now
