Dan Scott Prediction: Utah State vs Clemson |
QUARTERBACK
In a battle of signal caller's plagued by turnover troubles, perhaps Charlie Whitehurst has started the road back. He played much better in the loss at Virginia, though he was picked off once in the second half. But he looked more comfortable, and when that happens results usually follow. ADVANTAGE - Clemson RUNNING BACK Neither team has rushed the ball effectively this season, though Clemson has been slightly better than the Aggies. If the Tigers are going to get a breakout game from Duane Coleman or someone else (Reggie Merriweather?), this is the week. ADVANTAGE - Clemson WIDE RECEIVERS Clemson's Chansi Stuckey may not play because of a hamstring injury, and Kelvin Grant missed some practice time this week due to an allergic reaction. Still, this group should be the more talented of the two units. The key word is "should," because Tiger wideouts other than Airese Currie have yet to live up to expectations. ADVANTAGE - Clemson OFFENSIVE LINE It's been fun watching youngster Barry Richardson mature at left tackle for Clemson. The rest of the line has come along slowly. Utah State's smallish front wall is partly to blame for its lack of a running game. ADVANTAGE - Clemson RUN DEFENSE As bad as Clemson has been in this area, the Aggies have been worse. Stack up the numbers here and on paper is says Clemson should have the advantage. This is one time the paper is likely to be correct. ADVANTAGE - Clemson PASS DEFENSE The Tigers' secondary will get a decent test from an Aggie offense which at times will line up with no running backs and spread the entire field with receivers. On the flip side, Utah State's defenders could have problems stopping the faster, taller Clemson receivers. ADVANTAGE - Clemson SPECIAL TEAMS The Aggies provide some punch here with the nation's leading punt return unit, and some entertainment with a rolling, rugby-style punter. Clemson's special teams have been solid all season. Jad Dean's first field goal last week should have been a nice confidence booster. ADVANTAGE - Clemson THE PICK Clemson 41, Utah State 21
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