Clemson Football: Game-by-game predictions for 2017

This year’s Florida State vs. Clemson Tigers meeting could be for all the marbles in the ACC Atlantic division. Quarterback Deondre Francois should be a lot more focused in this year’s game after he had a 48.6 percent completion percentage last year.

Clemson put up 17 points in the fourth quarter to erase 28-20 deficit. Quarterback Deshaun Watson got the last laugh with a 34-yard touchdown pass to tight end Jordan Leggett.

The good thing for the Seminoles now is Watson and Leggett are both gone. Another positive thing is safety Derwin James returns for Florida State. As their centerfielder on defense, he should play a big role in this year’s matchup.

The Seminoles return five players on offense, but the “next man up” mentality should apply here, at least at running back anyways. Whether its Jacques Patrick or Cam Akers in the backfield, they should be in good hands in the running game.

They will need to develop their receivers but by November, a breakout player should have emerged already betwen Nyqwan Murray, Auden Tate and Keith Gavin.

In a game that will showcase two strong defensive units, it’s hard to see the Seminoles losing this one, even if it is on the road. Although, the Clemson Tigers have won two straight games heading into this season’s matchup.

Final: Florida State 31, Clemson 24 (8-2, 6-2 ACC)