Clemson Football: Game-by-game predictions for 2017

The Auburn Tigers offense looks ready to give transfer Jarrett Stidham a go as their starting quarterback. In a rematch of last year’s 19-13 bout, this year’s contest is sure to be another slugfest.

Stidham was the former quarterback at Baylor last time he was a starting collegiate quarterback back in 2015. There, he threw for 1,265 passing yards, 12 touchdowns and two interceptions.

In the backfield, Stidham will have SEC-leading rusher Kamryn Pettway as well as Kerryon Johnson to work with.

The passing game should develop under new offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey. The top receiving target (Ryan Davis) caught just 25 receptions for 194 receiving yards and a touchdown last season.

The Auburn defense will lose some pep in its step without defensive end Carl Lawson and tackle Montravius Adams. They will need some new blood to step in and contribute right away in their absence.

The linebackers, led by Deshaun Davis and Tre’ Williams, should be a handful for the Clemson Tigers at any rate. Seven starters return for a defense that allowed just 17.1 points per game (seventh in the FBS) last season

Clemson has won three straight meetings over Auburn. Considering this one is at home, they should do enough to stave off an early defeat.

Final: Auburn 17, Clemson 20 (2-0)