Clemson will look to win on Senior Day in style this Saturday when they take on the Citadel. On the other hand, the Bulldogs will look to make the most of their chance to play a top ten FBS team. They have some athletes that can make plays, but the Tigers will look to get a good lead quick and protect their starters from injury.
Clemson's Offense vs The Citadel's Defense
Even though the Bulldogs have a good defensive line, Clemson will look to get points quick against them. Justin Oxendine and Derek Douglas have caused problems for opposing teams up front. They have combined for 19 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks. Clemson will have to account for both and be prepared to be in some long yardage situations. Rod McDowell will have the opportunity to have a good day rushing. He should get plenty of chances to make Oxendine and Douglas commit to stopping the run. And Tajh Boyd, with good protection, should be able to throw deep to Sammy Watkins and Martavis Bryant.
Clemson's Defense vs The Citadel's Offense
It's pretty simple for the Clemson D this weekend. If they play like they did against Georgia Tech, they will be successful since the Bulldogs run the same option attack as Tech. QB Ben Dupree will be the key to their success with the option. He leads the team in rushing and is super quick. RB Darien Robinson has gotten nearly as many opportunities as Dupree and can be a factor as well. Look for the Clemson D-line to do exactly what they did early against Tech. Quandon Christianson had a big game as well and it should be no different this week. Stopping the run will be the focus because the Bulldogs are not geared to pass the ball often.
Special Teams
Clemson will look to be sound on special teams. This weekend will be a good chance for the Tigers to return a kickoff or punt for a TD. And the Citadel might take some risks with a fake punt to catch the Tigers off guard.
Prediction
Senior Day in Death Valley is set up for the Tigers to go out with a bang. They need to remain focused even though they are facing an FCS team. If all goes well, the Tigers will jump out to an early lead, avoid injuries, and rest the starters in the 2nd half. Also, Daniel Rodriguez should have a few opportunities to get in the endzone. If he is able to do so, it would make for a perfect moment. Clemson wins 59-17.
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