Clemson opens up ACC Conference play with a showdown with Florida State. The stakes are huge as the winner of this match up has won the Atlantic Division each of the last 3 years. The winner has the inside track to make the ACC Championship Game. The loser will not have control of their own destiny and need some luck to make it.
Clemson's offense vs. Florida State's defense
There aren't many times when Clemson's opponent has as much talent on defense as Clemson does on offense. One of the top offenses in the country will be facing off against one of the top defense in the country. For Clemson, the offensive line will have a big task on hand trying to contain FSU's defensive line led by Bjoern Werner. Werner currently leads the country in sacks and is on pace to have one of the best season ever by a defensive end. Werner will make plays but if Clemson can limit his opportunities the Tigers are capable of putting up points in the pass game. Tajh Boyd and Sammy Watkins were able to connect often against this same secondary last year and given time should have big plays again this year. But FSU can't forget about DeAndre Hopkins who leads the ACC in receiving and can have a big night if all the focus is on Watkins.
Clemson's defense vs. Florida State's Defense
Florida State's offense is showing a balanced attack for the first time in years. FSU's run game has vastly improved behind Chris Thompson and James Wilder. Thompson and Wilder have showed explosiveness that the Noles have lacked in recent seasons and both should be chomping at the bit to play against a Tiger defense that has been exposed against mediocre opponents. The Clemson linebackers and defensive line need to have their best game yet if the Tigers hope to be successful. Quarterback EJ Manuel leads the ACC in passing efficiency and can move FSU downfield through the air. Manuel is also a mobile quarterback which the Tigers have struggled with. Manuel is likely to try to make a big play early but is not extremely accurate so Clemson may have some opportunities to get interceptions.
Special Teams
The kicking game for both teams are very equal and very good. The return game could be the difference. Rashad Greene for the Seminoles and Sammy Watkins for Clemson are each capable of going the distance every time they touch the ball on special teams. If one of them returns a kick for a touchdown it could be the difference and give their team a win. Also, Tony Steward has been very active on Clemson special teams coverage. He could make an impact on special teams playing in his home state.
X-Factor
How will Clemson's offense handle Florida State's defensive line? If Clemson's line can handle or contain the FSU pressure the Tiger offense can put up points. Clemson may have to complete a lot of quick passes in order to negate the Noles defensive line. Screen passes could be a huge part of Clemson's success if they get lots off pressure from FSU.
Prediction
The game has been hyped all week as the Game of the Week in college football as both vie to remain in the top 10 in the country and become the front runner for the ACC Title. Both teams should be able to score and both teams are capable of making highlight reel plays. Their last 2 matchups have been decided by less than a touchdown and this year shoud be no different. In close games mistakes are critical and being able to capitalize on those mistakes could be the difference in the game. Home field advantage gives the Noles a slight advantage. Florida State wins 34-27.
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