Clemson's Offense vs Louisville's Defense
The Clemson offense will be facing one of, if not the best defense it will see all year. Louisville is a stingy defense leading the nation in yards per game. The Cardinals also have an NCAA high 12 interceptions. 7 of those have been picked off by Gerrald Holliman. With Clemson's lack of rushing attack Louisville can key on the pass.
The Tigers have been aggressive passing the ball the past 2 weeks. Deshaun Watson has given his receivers the opportunity to make plays but hasn’t forced many passes into coverage. He will need to do the same this weekend. With that being said, Watson will go to Mike Williams when he has 1 on 1 coverage. If the Tigers can get some sort of run game going it will help Watson and company be highly efficient through the air.
Louisville’s Offense vs Clemson’s Defense
Louisville will bring a balanced pro style attack. Their run game is led by running backs Dominique Brown and Brandon Radcliffe. These 2 have the luxury to run behind an offensive line that has been good with 3 senior starters. Look for the Cardinals to give the Tigers a heavy dose of Brown and Radcliffe if they can keep the game close.
Louisville doesn't lack in the passing game either. James Quick is as talented a receiver the Tigers will see all season. I was highly recruited out of high school. Also, Devante Parker is looking for the first time this season due to injury. He is tall and can cause issues. He has had back to back double digit touchdown seasons. He simply has a knack for the end zone. The Tigers secondary will have to bring their A game.
X-Factor
The crowd at Death Valley will be the X-Factor. Coach Bobby Petrino comparing Clemson’s environment to that of Syracuse when it was half empty has set off Tiger fans. He really has no clue and just gave extra motivation for a fan base that is already one of the best and loudest. Expect there to be quite a few mistakes for the Cardinals due to crowd noise.
Prediction
Clemson will ultimately still try to do what Clemson does. Go for the big play in the passing game. The Tiger offense will be challenged but should be able to move the ball effectively. Defensively, if Grady Jarrett and company can control the line of scrimmage they can have another stellar performance. Louisville will be balanced and make some plays but they cannot keep up with the Tiger offense. Clemson wins 34-17.
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