Clemson Football: Game-by-game predictions for 2017
Last year’s meeting between the North Carolina State Wolfpack and Clemson Tigers was an odd one. The game went into overtime, with the Tigers winning 24-17 but the Wolfpack walking away shaking their heads.
The Wolfpack forced four turnovers (three fumbles, one interception) and took the Tigers to the brink of a home loss. They allowed 378 passing yards and two passing touchdowns on defense.
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This time around, as hosts, NC State hopes their experience from last season’s defeat carries over into a victory.
Defensive end Bradley Chubb returns on a defense that returns seven other starters. Chubb had 21.0 tackles for loss, 10.0 sacks and three force fumbles in 2016. He’s expected to have bigger production in his senior season.
The Wolfpack’ offense is led by quarterback Ryan Finley. He threw for 3,059 passing yards, 18 touchdowns and eight interceptions last season.
Finley threw for 231 passing yards in last year’s game but also two interceptions. NC State only scored one offensive touchdown in the game as well. They may or may not improve on that total, as they return eight starters on offense.
Running back Nyheim Hines and hybrid playmaker Jaylen Samuels return looking to replace running back Matt Dayes’ production (1,166 rushing yards, 10 rushing touchdowns). Samuels had 565 receiving yards and seven receiving touchdowns in 2016.
Unfortunately for NC State, they haven’t beaten the Clemson Tigers since 2011. The Tigers have won 12 of the last 13 meetings and are only getting better. While the Wolfpack’ defense can keep pace, their offense will be the issue here.
Final: NC State 13, Clemson 23 (8-1, 6-1 ACC)