Dan Scott: Maryland - Clemson Prediction |
OFFENSE
What quarterback Charlie Whitehurst has done for the Clemson offense over the last two weeks has been impressive, even with the understanding that his record-setting performances came at the expense of the Atlantic Coast Conference bottom-feeders. Still, there remains the unanswered question of how he will fare against a quality opponent. The answer will come Saturday night against No. 19 Maryland. If he's given time to throw, there's little reason to believe Whitehurst won't be reasonably successful. But as Tommy Bowden said earlier this week, this game will be decided partly by how well the offensive line plays against a big, physical Terrapins' defense. Meanwhile, Maryland's multiple offense has helped produce seven straight victories. Much of the credit should go to West Virginia transfer Scott McBrien at quarterback, who leads the ACC in yards per completion (16.2) and has completed 61 percent of his passes during the seven game winning streak. A big offensive line and a healthy Bruce Perry at tailback, providing help for Chris Downs, could mean trouble for Clemson's struggling rushing defense. ADVANTAGE - Maryland. DEFENSE As mentioned above, the Tigers have seemingly gotten worse against the run as the season has worn on. The other half of Bowden's assessment of this game was how well his defensive front four played against a physical, experienced Maryland offensive line. If the Terps can run at will - both in the power game and with the option - Clemson's strong secondary then becomes vulnerable to the play-action pass. Maryland, on the other hand, will turn Butkus and Lombardi award finalist E.J. Henderson loose on the Clemson offense from his linebacker spot. Also expect the Terps to provide run support and additional blitzing from one of their safeties. The other will provide help to the cornerbacks when they use man-to-man coverage on Clemson's receivers. ADVANTAGE - Maryland. SPECIAL TEAMS Maryland leads its opponents in every special teams statistical category except for kickoff returns. Kickoff coverage cost Clemson field position and, ultimately, a touchdown early in the North Carolina game a week ago. Plus, it's the ESPN network televising the game, and it's at night. The combination has not been a good one for Clemson punter Wynn Kopp. ADVANTAGE - Maryland. COACHING Not a knock against Bowden here, but even going back to his last years as Georgia Tech's offensive coordinator Ralph Friedgen seems to have the Tigers' number. ADVANTAGE - Maryland. BOTTOM LINE For the first time in this space this year, the opposition claims every category in the matchup breakdown. Still, Clemson could keep this one close if their lines play well. If not, look out. THE PICK Maryland 34, Clemson 24
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