POLL CFP SEMI-FINAL: tOSU vs Clemson

[Hang_On_Sloopy08]

Some huge aspects of this game for both teams.

Clemson big, physical, fast WR's vs the secondary. I know Ohio St's secondary has been one of the best this year but they haven't faced a WR corp this good. Should be one of the keys. Our secondary got banged up end of the year and we haven’t faced anything like this test through the air.

Ohio St's OLine vs Clemson's DLine and Ohio St's running game. If they can keep this defense on the field and the Ohio St OL can them down with this running attack, JK and Fields, it could be the key to Ohio St winning this one. Clemson doesn't have the DL they had last year but they still have talented players and LB's.

One more huge factor. It might come down to what Trevor Lawrence we see. If we see him at his best, it is hard to beat this Clemson team. Ohio St will have to disguise this defense making it hard for Lawrence to adjust. If we see the TL we have over the back half of the season, huge plus for Clemson...if we see the early season TL, Ohio St has a good shot.

This game could go either way, I just hope we see Ohio St play their best out on the field. Need a great gameplan and that defense needs to be the best we saw all season.

GO BUCKEYES!

Good analysis. Really comes down to our secondary holding this really talented receiving group in check. If Young can effectively put pressure on Lawrence that will be a big help. If not it could be a long night.

Our offensive production IMHO all depends on Fields’ being mobile or not with his knee. If he’s mobile we have a triple threat offense with two strong runners and great WR’s around to pass to. But if Fields is one dimensional he’s not going to beat Clemson with his arm. We also need to get him rolling out of the pocket throwing in rhythm to our possession receivers to get the offense rolling. I don’t think we can line up and pound the ball on the ground down their throats, we’ll need to be be very effective and balanced in our attack.

 

[DeafOranguntan]

I did a full breakdown of each team last year, which people seemed to like and a couple asked me to do this year, so here it is. This will be long, so feel free to scroll past if you’re not interested in seeing the comparison.

#2 Ohio State:

Offense

• Scoring Offense: #1 (48.7 ppg)
• Total Offense: #5 (532 ypg)
• Passing Offense: #41 (258.8 ypg)
• Yards per Att.: #5 (9.53)
• Rushing Offense: #5 (272.2 ypg)
• Yards per Rush: #6 (5.67)
• 3rd Down Percentage: #1 (.57)
• Sacks Given Up: #94 (31 sacks)
• Turnovers Lost: Tied for #27 (13 fumbles, 1 interception, 14 total)
• Offensive Balance: Rushing 63% of Plays, Passing 37%
• Offensive Line Avg. Size: (6'5", 311 pounds)

QB Stats- 67.5% completions, 2953 yards, 40 touchdowns, 1 interception, 471 yards, 10 touchdowns
Second Half of Season - 70.7% completions, 213 ypg, 22 touchdowns, 1 interception
RB Stats- 6.5 ypc, 1829 yards, 20 touchdowns
Top Receiver Stats- 799 yards, 11 touchdowns

Defense

• Scoring Defense: #3 (12.5 ppg)
• Total Defense: #2 (247.6 ypg)
• Passing Defense: #2 (148.1 ypg)
• Yards per Pass: #2 (5.34 ypa)
• Rushing Defense: #7 (99.5 ypg)
• Yards per Rush: #6 (2.82 ypc)
• 3rd Down Defense: #5 (.286)
• Sacks: #3 (3.92)
• Turnovers Gained: #10
• Defensive Touchdowns: #48

• Penalties per game: #46
• Average Score Second Half of Season (last 7 games): 48-16

#3 Clemson:

Offense

• Scoring Offense: #4 (46.5 ppg)
• Total Offense: #3 (547.7 ypg)
• Passing Offense: #20 (294.8 ypg)
• Yards per Att.: #7 (8.81)
• Rushing Offense: #9 (252.9 ypg)
• Yards per Rush: #1 (6.46)
• 3rd Down Percentage: #13 (.474)
• Sacks Given Up: #5 (13 sacks)
• Turnovers Lost: Tied for #27 (4 fumbles, 10 interceptions, 14 total) - only one lost second half of season
• Offensive Balance: Rushing 54% of Plays, Passing 46%
• Offensive Line Avg. Size: (6'4", 325 pounds)

QB Stats- 68.8% completions, 3172 yards, 34 touchdowns, 8 interceptions, 407 yards rushing, 7 touchdowns
Second Half of Season - 76.7% completions, 273 ypg, 23 touchdowns, 0 interceptions
RB Stats- 8.2 ypc, 1500 yards, 17 touchdowns
Top Receiver Stats- 1082 yards, 13 touchdowns

Defense

• Scoring Defense: #1 (10.6 ppg)
• Total Defense: #1 (244.7 ypg)
• Passing Defense: #1 (138.5 ypg)
• Yards per Pass: #1 (5.33 ypa)
• Rushing Defense: #9 (106.2 ypg)
• Yards per Rush: #8 (2.96 ypc)
• 3rd Down Defense: #10 (.302)
• Sacks: #20 (2.85)
• Turnovers Gained: #3
• Defensive Touchdowns: #10

• Penalties per game: #40
• Average Score Second Half of Season: 53-9

 

[DeafOranguntan]

Position Comparisons

• Quarterback – An interesting matchup. The top two players in the country from the class of 2018, both from Georgia. After getting benched at UGA, Justin Fields left for greener pastures at Ohio State. In his first season as a full-time starter, Fields has been phenomenal, accounting for 3,400 total yards and 50 touchdowns. Fields has been incredibly careful throwing the ball, only throwing a single pick. However, he has not been turnover free, and has fumbled the ball. Physically, Fields is impressive, extremely fast with a powerful arm. Mentally, he has shown vulnerabilities. Since his time at Georgia, Fields has shown difficulty making reads. If his targets are covered, he is quick to run and holds onto the ball too long, leading to his being sacked 27 times. Fields has also had some injuries this year, a concern for the Buckeyes, since they lost a lot of depth when he arrived on campus and others transferred away. On the other side of the ball, Trevor Lawrence came into the season the Heisman favorite after dismantling the two playoff teams last year as a true freshman. He started the season looking very human, completing only 63% of his passes for 219 yards per game, 11 touchdowns, and 8 interceptions. However, since halftime of the Louisville game, he has played better than any other quarterback in the country, completing 76% of his passes for 273 ypg, 23 touchdowns, and no interceptions. He has also emerged as a huge running threat on par with Fields. Trevor is also more experienced than Fields in big games, and shows better decision making under pressure, with a nearly perfect QBR against the blitz. Slight Edge – Clemson
• Running Back – Another close matchup. JK Dobbins is the heart and soul of Ohio State’s offense. Dobbins has 2,028 all-purpose yards and 22 touchdowns. He averages 6.5 yards per carry. He is a very powerful back and can work as an every down back, pounding the rock to weaken the other team. His backup, Master Teague, averages 6.1 yards per carry for 780 yards and 4 touchdowns. Clemson’s Travis Etienne averages 8.2 yards per carry and has 1,828 all-purpose yards and 19 touchdowns. Etienne is the most explosive running back in college football, having 300 less yards and 3 less touchdowns than Dobbins, but doing it with 101 less carries. His backup, Lyn J Dixon, averages 6.1 yards per carry for 619 yards and 6 touchdowns. Ultimately, Dobbins has shown his ability to get consistent yards against good defensive units, while Etienne, though the best in the country in yards after contact, can be shut down at the line of scrimmage if the team hits him before he builds momentum. I think Dobbins will have the better game. Slight Edge – Ohio State.
• Wide Receivers – Not a close matchup. For the Buckeyes, Chris Olave has been a great player this year, accounting for 799 yards and 11 touchdowns. KJ Hill and Binjimin Victor have also been good for the Buckeyes, contributing 500 yards each and 16 touchdowns together. Because Dabo Swinney was a wide-receivers coach, he’s long been famous for recruiting and developing receivers. This year is no different, with a receiving corp including five 5 Stars and two 4 Stars. While Tee Higgins has been one of the top receivers in college football, Justyn Ross (who became a household name in last year’s national championship), Amari Rogers, Diondre Overton, and the two true freshman 5 Stars, Joseph Ngata and Frank Ladson have all made a name for themselves. This is Clemson’s greatest strength on offense. Edge – Clemson.
• Offensive Lines – Another close match. These two units are very similar in talent. The most talented (by recruiting metrics) on either side is Jackson Carman, Clemson’s left tackle. The second most talented (and it’s close) is Wyatt Davis, Ohio State’s right guard. One Ohio State lineman is first team All-Big Ten, with all five appearing on the three teams. Two Clemson linemen are first team All-ACC, with all five appearing on the three teams. Clemson has a size advantage on their offensive line, with their linemen weighing 14 more pounds on average. They are excellent at getting a push, leading to Clemson being top 5 in sacks allowed and top in yards per carry. Finally, Clemson’s offensive line has the experience advantage. Ohio State’s offensive line is young, with two sophomores, one junior, and two graduates. Clemson has one sophomore, but all four other players are seniors or graduates. To give you an idea of the experience, three of Clemson’s offensive line played against Ohio State in the 2016 Fiesta Bowl under Deshaun Watson. Slight Edge – Clemson
• Defensive Line – Not a close matchup. Everyone knew that Clemson would have a hard time replacing last year’s defensive line, very possibly the best defensive line ever. This was true, and Clemson’s defensive line is likely their largest vulnerability. They traded out Dexter Lawrence, Christian Wilkins, and Albert Huggins in the inner line for Tyler Davis, Jordan Williams, and Nyles Pinckney. They still average 300 pounds, but they’re not as big and powerful as last year’s group. At defensive end, Logan Rudolph has exploded as the best defensive end on Clemson’s squad. Despite being chosen as a preseason All-American, Xavier Thomas has had a very quiet season, only accounting for 23 tackles and 2 sacks. Similarly, 5 Star KJ Henry has not lived up to the 5 Star hype. Ohio State’s defensive line is small, 281 pounds on average. However, they are lightning fast, leading to their unit being the third best at getting to the quarterback. The entire unit is excellent, but of course, you can’t discuss Ohio State’s defense without bring up Chase Young, the best defensive player in college football (maybe best overall player). No player has been as disruptive of a force as him. Even in the last 3-4 games, where he hasn’t had as many sacks, he has forced offenses to change schemes to double him. Edge – Ohio State.
• Linebackers – The silver bullets are back! Ohio State’s once vaunted defense had lost its luster the past couple of seasons, turning into one of the historically worst defenses in Ohio State history. However, their new defensive coordinator implemented a scheme change, including an unusual linebackers scheme. Peter Werner and Tuf Borland have been quietly effective this year, though this isn’t surprising considering how dominant the defensive line has been. Senior Malik Harrison has been a great leader on the team and has accounted for 70 total tackles. Most people wondered how Clemson would replace Tre Lamar and Kendall Joseph after last season. Luckily, Isaiah Simmons decided that he would just play as well as three players to make up for them. Simmons has emerged as the likely second best defensive player in the country, winning the Butkus award. James Skalski and Chad Smith have also been effective in coverage or stopping the run. Edge - Clemson
• Defensive Backs – Unsurprisingly, the #1 and #2 passing defenses have excellent secondaries, both loaded with NFL talent. Jeff Okudah is likely the best player in this group, and maybe the best corner in the country, though Clemson’s A.J. Terrell has a claim to that title as well along with a few others. Last off-season, Clemson made a risky move moving 5 Star wide receiver Derion Kendrick to cornerback, though this has paid off in a big way with Kendrick becoming second string All-ACC. Draw.
• Special Teams – Ohio State’s Blake Haubeil hasn’t had many chances to make field goals this year, but he’s made his chances count. He’s 10 of 12 (83%) and has made a 55 yard field goal. Drue Chrisman has been solid on punts. He gets 3.1 punts a game on average, and averages 44.13 yards per punt. Clemson’s B.T. Potter made national news after cameras caught Dabo yelling at him for missing a chip shot after not paying attention to the game earlier in the year. He’s 12 of 19 (63%) and has made a 51 yarder. Clemson’s punting unit has gotten better this year but is still not great. Will Spiers averages 2.6 punts per game and averages 42.46 yards per punt. Edge – Ohio State.
• Coaching – Not much needs to be said here. Ohio State’s new coaching staff has done extremely well, taking a team with a terrible defense and making the team with the largest margin of victory in football. However, their biggest game so far as a staff has been the Wisconsin game, a team that thinks they’re still playing in the 1970s. This is Clemson’s staffs fifth playoff appearance in a row. In all those games, Clemson’s had the same head coach, same offensive coordinator, and same defensive coordinator. After 2012’s embarrassment at the hands of West Virginia, Dabo Swinney went and hired Brent Venables. Since that game, Clemson has not looked back. They are 8-2 in the post-season, beating LSU, Notre Dame, Oklahoma twice, Ohio State twice, and Alabama twice. Their average margin of victory in those wins has been 21 points. They’ve also gone against some amazing players in that time, including: Odell Beckham Jr., Ezekiel Elliot, Joey Bosa, Baker Mayfield (and Lamar Jackson multiple times), Jonathan Allen, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Jalen Hurts, Tua, and Quinnen Williams. Edge – Clemson.

Summary

This is a matchup between two teams that seem to be mirrors of each other. Neither team has played anyone close to as good as these two teams are. Both are the two most well-rounded, dominant teams in college football. The key here will come down to a few key matchups. Can Okudah slow down Tee Higgins? Clemson’s receivers are so dangerous but slowing down Lawrence’s favorite target could help their cause tremendously. Can Clemson’s defensive line step up and stop JK Dobbins? The Buckeyes are dependent on Dobbins and if you stop him, you stop the Buckeyes. That’s much easier said than done. Fields has had some injury concerns. Can Ohio State’s offensive line keep Clemson’s defense off of him, something they’ve struggled with this year?

But the single most important factor is the matchup between Clemson’s offensive line and Ohio State’s defensive line. Clemson’s offensive line has helped the Tigers have the highest yards per carry and fifth fewest sacks allowed. If Ohio State cannot consistently get to Lawrence, they will have trouble slowing down Clemson’s extremely balanced, explosive offense. They have to rattle Lawrence, because when he plays at his best potential, they become close to unstoppable. Luckily for the Buckeyes, they are top 5 in getting to the QB and top 10 in yards per carry allowed.

Ultimately, I think the game comes down to the differences in coaching. Venables and Elliot are two of the best coordinators in the game and have been here before against excellent offenses and defenses. This is a different animal for Ohio State’s staff and very young team, and I believe Venables and Elliot figure out how to win these important matchups before Day’s staff does.

Clemson - 38-28

 

[Shanemansj13]

Position Comparisons

• Quarterback – An interesting matchup. The top two players in the country from the class of 2018, both from Georgia. After getting benched at UGA, Justin Fields left for greener pastures at Ohio State. In his first season as a full-time starter, Fields has been phenomenal, accounting for 3,400 total yards and 50 touchdowns. Fields has been incredibly careful throwing the ball, only throwing a single pick. However, he has not been turnover free, and has fumbled the ball. Physically, Fields is impressive, extremely fast with a powerful arm. Mentally, he has shown vulnerabilities. Since his time at Georgia, Fields has shown difficulty making reads. If his targets are covered, he is quick to run and holds onto the ball too long, leading to his being sacked 27 times. Fields has also had some injuries this year, a concern for the Buckeyes, since they lost a lot of depth when he arrived on campus and others transferred away. On the other side of the ball, Trevor Lawrence came into the season the Heisman favorite after dismantling the two playoff teams last year as a true freshman. He started the season looking very human, completing only 63% of his passes for 219 yards per game, 11 touchdowns, and 8 interceptions. However, since halftime of the Louisville game, he has played better than any other quarterback in the country, completing 76% of his passes for 273 ypg, 23 touchdowns, and no interceptions. He has also emerged as a huge running threat on par with Fields. Trevor is also more experienced than Fields in big games, and shows better decision making under pressure, with a nearly perfect QBR against the blitz. Slight Edge – Clemson
• Running Back – Another close matchup. JK Dobbins is the heart and soul of Ohio State’s offense. Dobbins has 2,028 all-purpose yards and 22 touchdowns. He averages 6.5 yards per carry. He is a very powerful back and can work as an every down back, pounding the rock to weaken the other team. His backup, Master Teague, averages 6.1 yards per carry for 780 yards and 4 touchdowns. Clemson’s Travis Etienne averages 8.2 yards per carry and has 1,828 all-purpose yards and 19 touchdowns. Etienne is the most explosive running back in college football, having 300 less yards and 3 less touchdowns than Dobbins, but doing it with 101 less carries. His backup, Lyn J Dixon, averages 6.1 yards per carry for 619 yards and 6 touchdowns. Ultimately, Dobbins has shown his ability to get consistent yards against good defensive units, while Etienne, though the best in the country in yards after contact, can be shut down at the line of scrimmage if the team hits him before he builds momentum. I think Dobbins will have the better game. Slight Edge – Ohio State.
• Wide Receivers – Not a close matchup. For the Buckeyes, Chris Olave has been a great player this year, accounting for 799 yards and 11 touchdowns. KJ Hill and Binjimin Victor have also been good for the Buckeyes, contributing 500 yards each and 16 touchdowns together. Because Dabo Swinney was a wide-receivers coach, he’s long been famous for recruiting and developing receivers. This year is no different, with a receiving corp including five 5 Stars and two 4 Stars. While Tee Higgins has been one of the top receivers in college football, Justyn Ross (who became a household name in last year’s national championship), Amari Rogers, Diondre Overton, and the two true freshman 5 Stars, Joseph Ngata and Frank Ladson have all made a name for themselves. This is Clemson’s greatest strength on offense. Edge – Clemson.
• Offensive Lines – Another close match. These two units are very similar in talent. The most talented (by recruiting metrics) on either side is Jackson Carman, Clemson’s left tackle. The second most talented (and it’s close) is Wyatt Davis, Ohio State’s right guard. One Ohio State lineman is first team All-Big Ten, with all five appearing on the three teams. Two Clemson linemen are first team All-ACC, with all five appearing on the three teams. Clemson has a size advantage on their offensive line, with their linemen weighing 14 more pounds on average. They are excellent at getting a push, leading to Clemson being top 5 in sacks allowed and top in yards per carry. Finally, Clemson’s offensive line has the experience advantage. Ohio State’s offensive line is young, with two sophomores, one junior, and two graduates. Clemson has one sophomore, but all four other players are seniors or graduates. To give you an idea of the experience, three of Clemson’s offensive line played against Ohio State in the 2016 Fiesta Bowl under Deshaun Watson. Slight Edge – Clemson
• Defensive Line – Not a close matchup. Everyone knew that Clemson would have a hard time replacing last year’s defensive line, very possibly the best defensive line ever. This was true, and Clemson’s defensive line is likely their largest vulnerability. They traded out Dexter Lawrence, Christian Wilkins, and Albert Huggins in the inner line for Tyler Davis, Jordan Williams, and Nyles Pinckney. They still average 300 pounds, but they’re not as big and powerful as last year’s group. At defensive end, Logan Rudolph has exploded as the best defensive end on Clemson’s squad. Despite being chosen as a preseason All-American, Xavier Thomas has had a very quiet season, only accounting for 23 tackles and 2 sacks. Similarly, 5 Star KJ Henry has not lived up to the 5 Star hype. Ohio State’s defensive line is small, 281 pounds on average. However, they are lightning fast, leading to their unit being the third best at getting to the quarterback. The entire unit is excellent, but of course, you can’t discuss Ohio State’s defense without bring up Chase Young, the best defensive player in college football (maybe best overall player). No player has been as disruptive of a force as him. Even in the last 3-4 games, where he hasn’t had as many sacks, he has forced offenses to change schemes to double him. Edge – Ohio State.
• Linebackers – The silver bullets are back! Ohio State’s once vaunted defense had lost its luster the past couple of seasons, turning into one of the historically worst defenses in Ohio State history. However, their new defensive coordinator implemented a scheme change, including an unusual linebackers scheme. Peter Werner and Tuf Borland have been quietly effective this year, though this isn’t surprising considering how dominant the defensive line has been. Senior Malik Harrison has been a great leader on the team and has accounted for 70 total tackles. Most people wondered how Clemson would replace Tre Lamar and Kendall Joseph after last season. Luckily, Isaiah Simmons decided that he would just play as well as three players to make up for them. Simmons has emerged as the likely second best defensive player in the country, winning the Butkus award. James Skalski and Chad Smith have also been effective in coverage or stopping the run. Edge - Clemson
• Defensive Backs – Unsurprisingly, the #1 and #2 passing defenses have excellent secondaries, both loaded with NFL talent. Jeff Okudah is likely the best player in this group, and maybe the best corner in the country, though Clemson’s A.J. Terrell has a claim to that title as well along with a few others. Last off-season, Clemson made a risky move moving 5 Star wide receiver Derion Kendrick to cornerback, though this has paid off in a big way with Kendrick becoming second string All-ACC. Draw.
• Special Teams – Ohio State’s Blake Haubeil hasn’t had many chances to make field goals this year, but he’s made his chances count. He’s 10 of 12 (83%) and has made a 55 yard field goal. Drue Chrisman has been solid on punts. He gets 3.1 punts a game on average, and averages 44.13 yards per punt. Clemson’s B.T. Potter made national news after cameras caught Dabo yelling at him for missing a chip shot after not paying attention to the game earlier in the year. He’s 12 of 19 (63%) and has made a 51 yarder. Clemson’s punting unit has gotten better this year but is still not great. Will Spiers averages 2.6 punts per game and averages 42.46 yards per punt. Edge – Ohio State.
• Coaching – Not much needs to be said here. Ohio State’s new coaching staff has done extremely well, taking a team with a terrible defense and making the team with the largest margin of victory in football. However, their biggest game so far as a staff has been the Wisconsin game, a team that thinks they’re still playing in the 1970s. This is Clemson’s staffs fifth playoff appearance in a row. In all those games, Clemson’s had the same head coach, same offensive coordinator, and same defensive coordinator. After 2012’s embarrassment at the hands of West Virginia, Dabo Swinney went and hired Brent Venables. Since that game, Clemson has not looked back. They are 8-2 in the post-season, beating LSU, Notre Dame, Oklahoma twice, Ohio State twice, and Alabama twice. Their average margin of victory in those wins has been 21 points. They’ve also gone against some amazing players in that time, including: Odell Beckham Jr., Ezekiel Elliot, Joey Bosa, Baker Mayfield (and Lamar Jackson multiple times), Jonathan Allen, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Jalen Hurts, Tua, and Quinnen Williams. Edge – Clemson.

Summary

This is a matchup between two teams that seem to be mirrors of each other. Neither team has played anyone close to as good as these two teams are. Both are the two most well-rounded, dominant teams in college football. The key here will come down to a few key matchups. Can Okudah slow down Tee Higgins? Clemson’s receivers are so dangerous but slowing down Lawrence’s favorite target could help their cause tremendously. Can Clemson’s defensive line step up and stop JK Dobbins? The Buckeyes are dependent on Dobbins and if you stop him, you stop the Buckeyes. That’s much easier said than done. Fields has had some injury concerns. Can Ohio State’s offensive line keep Clemson’s defense off of him, something they’ve struggled with this year?

But the single most important factor is the matchup between Clemson’s offensive line and Ohio State’s defensive line. Clemson’s offensive line has helped the Tigers have the highest yards per carry and fifth fewest sacks allowed. If Ohio State cannot consistently get to Lawrence, they will have trouble slowing down Clemson’s extremely balanced, explosive offense. They have to rattle Lawrence, because when he plays at his best potential, they become close to unstoppable. Luckily for the Buckeyes, they are top 5 in getting to the QB and top 10 in yards per carry allowed.

Ultimately, I think the game comes down to the differences in coaching. Venables and Elliot are two of the best coordinators in the game and have been here before against excellent offenses and defenses. This is a different animal for Ohio State’s staff and very young team, and I believe Venables and Elliot figure out how to win these important matchups before Day’s staff does.

Clemson - 38-28

Only thing I disagree about is the OL. Ohio St's OL has been underestimated all year long...this is their time to shine (even though they been doing it all season with basically all new starters).

Good luck

 

[fishinabarrel]

Only thing I disagree about is the OL. Ohio St's OL has been underestimated all year long...this is their time to shine (even though they been doing it all season with basically all new starters).

Good luck

Well maybe the final score as well

 

[TigerBait1971]

I hope it's a good clean game that goes to 11 OT's

 

[TheLonestarDUCK]

Position Comparisons

• Quarterback – An interesting matchup. The top two players in the country from the class of 2018, both from Georgia. After getting benched at UGA, Justin Fields left for greener pastures at Ohio State. In his first season as a full-time starter, Fields has been phenomenal, accounting for 3,400 total yards and 50 touchdowns. Fields has been incredibly careful throwing the ball, only throwing a single pick. However, he has not been turnover free, and has fumbled the ball. Physically, Fields is impressive, extremely fast with a powerful arm. Mentally, he has shown vulnerabilities. Since his time at Georgia, Fields has shown difficulty making reads. If his targets are covered, he is quick to run and holds onto the ball too long, leading to his being sacked 27 times. Fields has also had some injuries this year, a concern for the Buckeyes, since they lost a lot of depth when he arrived on campus and others transferred away. On the other side of the ball, Trevor Lawrence came into the season the Heisman favorite after dismantling the two playoff teams last year as a true freshman. He started the season looking very human, completing only 63% of his passes for 219 yards per game, 11 touchdowns, and 8 interceptions. However, since halftime of the Louisville game, he has played better than any other quarterback in the country, completing 76% of his passes for 273 ypg, 23 touchdowns, and no interceptions. He has also emerged as a huge running threat on par with Fields. Trevor is also more experienced than Fields in big games, and shows better decision making under pressure, with a nearly perfect QBR against the blitz. Slight Edge – Clemson
• Running Back – Another close matchup. JK Dobbins is the heart and soul of Ohio State’s offense. Dobbins has 2,028 all-purpose yards and 22 touchdowns. He averages 6.5 yards per carry. He is a very powerful back and can work as an every down back, pounding the rock to weaken the other team. His backup, Master Teague, averages 6.1 yards per carry for 780 yards and 4 touchdowns. Clemson’s Travis Etienne averages 8.2 yards per carry and has 1,828 all-purpose yards and 19 touchdowns. Etienne is the most explosive running back in college football, having 300 less yards and 3 less touchdowns than Dobbins, but doing it with 101 less carries. His backup, Lyn J Dixon, averages 6.1 yards per carry for 619 yards and 6 touchdowns. Ultimately, Dobbins has shown his ability to get consistent yards against good defensive units, while Etienne, though the best in the country in yards after contact, can be shut down at the line of scrimmage if the team hits him before he builds momentum. I think Dobbins will have the better game. Slight Edge – Ohio State.
• Wide Receivers – Not a close matchup. For the Buckeyes, Chris Olave has been a great player this year, accounting for 799 yards and 11 touchdowns. KJ Hill and Binjimin Victor have also been good for the Buckeyes, contributing 500 yards each and 16 touchdowns together. Because Dabo Swinney was a wide-receivers coach, he’s long been famous for recruiting and developing receivers. This year is no different, with a receiving corp including five 5 Stars and two 4 Stars. While Tee Higgins has been one of the top receivers in college football, Justyn Ross (who became a household name in last year’s national championship), Amari Rogers, Diondre Overton, and the two true freshman 5 Stars, Joseph Ngata and Frank Ladson have all made a name for themselves. This is Clemson’s greatest strength on offense. Edge – Clemson.
• Offensive Lines – Another close match. These two units are very similar in talent. The most talented (by recruiting metrics) on either side is Jackson Carman, Clemson’s left tackle. The second most talented (and it’s close) is Wyatt Davis, Ohio State’s right guard. One Ohio State lineman is first team All-Big Ten, with all five appearing on the three teams. Two Clemson linemen are first team All-ACC, with all five appearing on the three teams. Clemson has a size advantage on their offensive line, with their linemen weighing 14 more pounds on average. They are excellent at getting a push, leading to Clemson being top 5 in sacks allowed and top in yards per carry. Finally, Clemson’s offensive line has the experience advantage. Ohio State’s offensive line is young, with two sophomores, one junior, and two graduates. Clemson has one sophomore, but all four other players are seniors or graduates. To give you an idea of the experience, three of Clemson’s offensive line played against Ohio State in the 2016 Fiesta Bowl under Deshaun Watson. Slight Edge – Clemson
• Defensive Line – Not a close matchup. Everyone knew that Clemson would have a hard time replacing last year’s defensive line, very possibly the best defensive line ever. This was true, and Clemson’s defensive line is likely their largest vulnerability. They traded out Dexter Lawrence, Christian Wilkins, and Albert Huggins in the inner line for Tyler Davis, Jordan Williams, and Nyles Pinckney. They still average 300 pounds, but they’re not as big and powerful as last year’s group. At defensive end, Logan Rudolph has exploded as the best defensive end on Clemson’s squad. Despite being chosen as a preseason All-American, Xavier Thomas has had a very quiet season, only accounting for 23 tackles and 2 sacks. Similarly, 5 Star KJ Henry has not lived up to the 5 Star hype. Ohio State’s defensive line is small, 281 pounds on average. However, they are lightning fast, leading to their unit being the third best at getting to the quarterback. The entire unit is excellent, but of course, you can’t discuss Ohio State’s defense without bring up Chase Young, the best defensive player in college football (maybe best overall player). No player has been as disruptive of a force as him. Even in the last 3-4 games, where he hasn’t had as many sacks, he has forced offenses to change schemes to double him. Edge – Ohio State.
• Linebackers – The silver bullets are back! Ohio State’s once vaunted defense had lost its luster the past couple of seasons, turning into one of the historically worst defenses in Ohio State history. However, their new defensive coordinator implemented a scheme change, including an unusual linebackers scheme. Peter Werner and Tuf Borland have been quietly effective this year, though this isn’t surprising considering how dominant the defensive line has been. Senior Malik Harrison has been a great leader on the team and has accounted for 70 total tackles. Most people wondered how Clemson would replace Tre Lamar and Kendall Joseph after last season. Luckily, Isaiah Simmons decided that he would just play as well as three players to make up for them. Simmons has emerged as the likely second best defensive player in the country, winning the Butkus award. James Skalski and Chad Smith have also been effective in coverage or stopping the run. Edge - Clemson
• Defensive Backs – Unsurprisingly, the #1 and #2 passing defenses have excellent secondaries, both loaded with NFL talent. Jeff Okudah is likely the best player in this group, and maybe the best corner in the country, though Clemson’s A.J. Terrell has a claim to that title as well along with a few others. Last off-season, Clemson made a risky move moving 5 Star wide receiver Derion Kendrick to cornerback, though this has paid off in a big way with Kendrick becoming second string All-ACC. Draw.
• Special Teams – Ohio State’s Blake Haubeil hasn’t had many chances to make field goals this year, but he’s made his chances count. He’s 10 of 12 (83%) and has made a 55 yard field goal. Drue Chrisman has been solid on punts. He gets 3.1 punts a game on average, and averages 44.13 yards per punt. Clemson’s B.T. Potter made national news after cameras caught Dabo yelling at him for missing a chip shot after not paying attention to the game earlier in the year. He’s 12 of 19 (63%) and has made a 51 yarder. Clemson’s punting unit has gotten better this year but is still not great. Will Spiers averages 2.6 punts per game and averages 42.46 yards per punt. Edge – Ohio State.
• Coaching – Not much needs to be said here. Ohio State’s new coaching staff has done extremely well, taking a team with a terrible defense and making the team with the largest margin of victory in football. However, their biggest game so far as a staff has been the Wisconsin game, a team that thinks they’re still playing in the 1970s. This is Clemson’s staffs fifth playoff appearance in a row. In all those games, Clemson’s had the same head coach, same offensive coordinator, and same defensive coordinator. After 2012’s embarrassment at the hands of West Virginia, Dabo Swinney went and hired Brent Venables. Since that game, Clemson has not looked back. They are 8-2 in the post-season, beating LSU, Notre Dame, Oklahoma twice, Ohio State twice, and Alabama twice. Their average margin of victory in those wins has been 21 points. They’ve also gone against some amazing players in that time, including: Odell Beckham Jr., Ezekiel Elliot, Joey Bosa, Baker Mayfield (and Lamar Jackson multiple times), Jonathan Allen, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Jalen Hurts, Tua, and Quinnen Williams. Edge – Clemson.

Summary

This is a matchup between two teams that seem to be mirrors of each other. Neither team has played anyone close to as good as these two teams are. Both are the two most well-rounded, dominant teams in college football. The key here will come down to a few key matchups. Can Okudah slow down Tee Higgins? Clemson’s receivers are so dangerous but slowing down Lawrence’s favorite target could help their cause tremendously. Can Clemson’s defensive line step up and stop JK Dobbins? The Buckeyes are dependent on Dobbins and if you stop him, you stop the Buckeyes. That’s much easier said than done. Fields has had some injury concerns. Can Ohio State’s offensive line keep Clemson’s defense off of him, something they’ve struggled with this year?

But the single most important factor is the matchup between Clemson’s offensive line and Ohio State’s defensive line. Clemson’s offensive line has helped the Tigers have the highest yards per carry and fifth fewest sacks allowed. If Ohio State cannot consistently get to Lawrence, they will have trouble slowing down Clemson’s extremely balanced, explosive offense. They have to rattle Lawrence, because when he plays at his best potential, they become close to unstoppable. Luckily for the Buckeyes, they are top 5 in getting to the QB and top 10 in yards per carry allowed.

Ultimately, I think the game comes down to the differences in coaching. Venables and Elliot are two of the best coordinators in the game and have been here before against excellent offenses and defenses. This is a different animal for Ohio State’s staff and very young team, and I believe Venables and Elliot figure out how to win these important matchups before Day’s staff does.

SCORE tOSU 38 Clemson 34

 

[Stakesarehigh]

I think it comes down to who can control the LOS like most games. Both teams have weapons and they about even out but it's all about whether those weapons have time to make plays.

 

[Hang_On_Sloopy08]

Welp I saw about all I needed to know tonight to tell me how this game is going to go. Fields is 80-85% he said. Which really means he’s close it 60-65%. Said he can’t move right now like he wants to. This makes him one dimensional and not elusive enough as he needs to be for our offensive design against this caliber of defense. So I see this as we’re fucked. He doesn’t put up huge numbers with his arm as it is, and he’s going to throw against the best secondary he’s faced all year. Yup we’re fucked in this department unless Dobbins can rush for 250+ yards.

Also we have two banged up corners still especially with Wade still wearing a wrap on the hammy. Arnette still in a cast on his arm. Not feeling good about our chances.

42-14 Clemson

 

[78Cyclones]

Welp I saw about all I needed to know tonight to tell me how this game is going to go. Fields is 80-85% he said. Which really means he’s close it 60-65%.

I thought the exact same thing!

Damn shame too. They have clearly been the best team all year (to me), and it sucks to have the QB hobbled just in time to go up against such a staunch defense. Just have to dig down deep and figure it out.

O-H!

 

[gob]

Welp I saw about all I needed to know tonight to tell me how this game is going to go. Fields is 80-85% he said. Which really means he’s close it 60-65%. Said he can’t move right now like he wants to. This makes him one dimensional and not elusive enough as he needs to be for our offensive design against this caliber of defense. So I see this as we’re fucked. He doesn’t put up huge numbers with his arm as it is, and he’s going to throw against the best secondary he’s faced all year. Yup we’re fucked in this department unless Dobbins can rush for 250+ yards.

Also we have two banged up corners still especially with Wade still wearing a wrap on the hammy. Arnette still in a cast on his arm. Not feeling good about our chances.

42-14 Clemson

I'm not as pessimistic. Based on his diagnostic injury, if he's 85% now he should be at least 90% by game time.

 

[Hang_On_Sloopy08]

I'm not as pessimistic. Based on his diagnostic injury, if he's 85% now he should be at least 90% by game time.

I saw this happen with JT too though. Once he had the MCL sprain he was no longer much of a run threat and our offense got really predictable when he was one dimensional. We’re going against an elite defense. I’m trying not to be so pessimistic either, but I’ve got big concerns.

 

[PIBuckeye]

Welp I saw about all I needed to know tonight to tell me how this game is going to go. Fields is 80-85% he said. Which really means he’s close it 60-65%. Said he can’t move right now like he wants to. This makes him one dimensional and not elusive enough as he needs to be for our offensive design against this caliber of defense. So I see this as we’re fucked. He doesn’t put up huge numbers with his arm as it is, and he’s going to throw against the best secondary he’s faced all year. Yup we’re fucked in this department unless Dobbins can rush for 250+ yards.

Also we have two banged up corners still especially with Wade still wearing a wrap on the hammy. Arnette still in a cast on his arm. Not feeling good about our chances.

42-14 Clemson

well it’s easy to not be a banged up team when you go up against the pills bury dough boy of conferences. Vs the gauntlet of the B1G or sec....

If fields is anything less than 80% truthfully OSU doesn’t stand a chance
Unless clemmy plays like their first 6 games...

 

[Hang_On_Sloopy08]

well it’s easy to not be a banged up team when you go up against the pills bury dough boy of conferences. Vs the gauntlet of the B1G or sec....

If fields is anything less than 80% truthfully OSU doesn’t stand a chance
Unless clemmy plays like their first 6 games...

I think he was being optimistic for the media when he said 80-85%. Just concerned me the way he said he can’t run like he wants to. That’s a big part of his game and being elusive in the pocket. He was a statue against Wisconsin in the pocket and got killed that first half. Clemson’s defense is arguably the best in the country, Fields needs to be close to 100% to have the kinda game we need from him. But I’ve seen some gutsy performances from QB’s playing injured, I’m just hopeful the adrenaline kicks in which it should and help elevate him to have some of the speed he needs. So we shall see, just a little bummed selfishly. But he’s super talented and maybe I shouldn’t doubt his abilities here but we shall see.

 

[RubinRock]

I think he was being optimistic for the media when he said 80-85%. Just concerned me the way he said he can’t run like he wants to. That’s a big part of his game and being elusive in the pocket. He was a statue against Wisconsin in the pocket and got killed that first half. Clemson’s defense is arguably the best in the country, Fields needs to be close to 100% to have the kinda game we need from him. But I’ve seen some gutsy performances from QB’s playing injured, I’m just hopeful the adrenaline kicks in which it should and help elevate him to have some of the speed he needs. So we shall see, just a little bummed selfishly. But he’s super talented and maybe I shouldn’t doubt his abilities here but we shall see.

I know Clemson won the game but I’ll never forget Braxton Miller in the 2014 orange bowl. He took some major hits and could hardly throw the ball. But dammit if he didn’t keep burning the Clemson defense. And there was a lot of nfl talent on that defense. Lot of respect for him just based on that game.

 

[Edisto_Tiger]

well it’s easy to not be a banged up team when you go up against the pills bury dough boy of conferences. Vs the gauntlet of the B1G or sec....

If fields is anything less than 80% truthfully OSU doesn’t stand a chance
Unless clemmy plays like their first 6 games...

This gauntlet? Penn st.? Lol

 

[Hang_On_Sloopy08]

I know Clemson won the game but I’ll never forget Braxton Miller in the 2014 orange bowl. He took some major hits and could hardly throw the ball. But dammit if he didn’t keep burning the Clemson defense. And there was a lot of nfl talent on that defense. Lot of respect for him just based on that game.

Oh yeah that was a great game. Braxton played a really gutsy 4th quarter and left it all on the field that night. Had he been healthy "maybe" we win that game, we'll never know and not making excuses, he played great despite hurting his shoulder was it? We had no answer for Sammy Watkins though that night, he was the star of the show.

 

[Wamu]

This gauntlet? Penn st.? Lol

View attachment 227652

Hey stop making fun of Ohio State's schedule! I mean it's not as tough as Clemson's.

GT: 3-9
A & M: was ranked # 12 when the game was played, finished 7-5
@Syracuse: 5-7
Charlotte: 7-5
@Carolina: 6-6
FSU: 6-6
@Lville: 7-5
BC: 6-6
Wofford: <---cupcake FCS, their record doesn't matter (but they went 8-4)
@ N.C. St: 4-8
WF: 8-4
@S. Carolina: 4-8
Virginia: 9-4 (# 23)

So 6 teams that finished with a winning record. None won double digits. 3 teams that finished at .500. And 4 teams that finished below .500.

And you're making fun of the 3 ranked teams Ohio State finished up with?

 

[Edisto_Tiger]

Hey stop making fun of Ohio State's schedule! I mean it's not as tough as Clemson's.

GT: 3-9
A & M: was ranked # 12 when the game was played, finished 7-5
@Syracuse: 5-7
Charlotte: 7-5
@Carolina: 6-6
FSU: 6-6
@Lville: 7-5
BC: 6-6
Wofford: <---cupcake FCS, their record doesn't matter (but they went 8-4)
@ N.C. St: 4-8
WF: 8-4
@S. Carolina: 4-8
Virginia: 9-4 (# 23)

So 6 teams that finished with a winning record. None won double digits. 3 teams that finished at .500. And 4 teams that finished below .500.

And you're making fun of the 3 ranked teams Ohio State finished up with?

Wasn’t calling out OSU’s schedule or comparing it to ours. Our schedule was soft, extremely soft, but when I hear these statements about resting players or players not getting hurt because the schedule was easy, I call bullshit.

OSU was able to rest players all season long too. That’s all I’m sayin.

 

[Wamu]

Wasn’t calling out OSU’s schedule or comparing it to ours. Our schedule was soft, extremely soft, but when I hear these statements about resting players or players not getting hurt because the schedule was easy, I call bullshit.

OSU was able to rest players all season long too. That’s all I’m sayin.

I'm not trying to defend the Buckeyes schedule. But when all you is say Penn St. lol sure seems like you were taking a shot at the schedule. Thanks for the explanation.

Not sure what that players not getting hurt because of the schedule stuff was but if it involves any overly homeristic Ohio State fans don't wanna hear any of that nonsense from them.