College Football
NC State vs Clemson Football Preview
NC State vs Clemson, formally known as the “Textile Bowl.” This rivalry game features two teams riding into this matchup undefeated and looking to take control of the Atlantic Division in the ACC. Clemson has won the past six meetings, but NC State probably should have won the past two years. Saturday is homecoming for Clemson, but will the Wolfpack play spoiler?
Clemson O vs NC State D
Clemson comes into the matchup averaging over 530 yards per game of total offense (250 passing, 280 rushing). NC State brings a decent defense, surrendering a little over 340 yards a game (234 passing, 107 rushing). One thing that has been noticeable is Clemson’s slow offensive starts. NC State needs to capitalize if Clemson comes out the gate slow. The story so far for Clemson is to start slow but turn on the burners and win convincingly. The Wolfpack need to find a way to put pressure on the QB and slow the running game. Still, Clemson has a ton of playmakers on offense (RB Travis Etienne, WR Justyn Ross, QB Trevor Lawrence – just to name a few), so it is not a matter of if, but when they put it together.
Advantage: Clemson
NC State O vs Clemson D
This is where the game either stays competitive or turns into a blowout. NC State brings in an offense averaging over 480 yards per game (335 passing, 145 rushing). Clemson’s defense is allowing 260 yards per game (152 passing, 108 rushing). The Wolfpack have a stellar passing game, but not a running game to match up with the Tigers. NC State is not going to be able to run consistently against Clemson. However, the Wolfpack’s strength in the passing game could cause havoc for the Tiger secondary. NC State is going to need the aerial attack to be effective if they want any shot at winning. If NC State can protect Ryan Finley from Clemson’s front four, he can do enough to keep the Wolfpack in this game.
Advantage: Slight to Clemson
What Will Happen…
Clemson has been slow to start so until I see something differently, I am going to guess it happens again. NC State finds some offensive success early to put the pressure on the Tigers. Clemson’s defense will make some stops and the offense will start roaring for the Tigers. NC State will continue to play tough but not have enough horses to keep up with Clemson. The score will be close but Clemson pulls away late to stamp their seventh straight win against NC State.
Clemson 42 NC State 28
Honestly, I think NC State should have won last year. The Wolfpack had a good defense and offense to complement it. While at the current time I believe NC State has a better QB, Clemson is just deeper and more talented across the board. Last year’s NC State squad would have matched up well, but this year’s team is not as potent. My heart says Clemson should put NC State away early, but my head says rivalry week shenanigans equals close-ish game.
What do you think? Does NC State pull a shocker on homecoming?
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Photo credit to Dawson Powers via Flickr.
