Clemson Football: Preview, prediction, live stream vs. South Carolina in Week 13
At first glance, this game seems like it will be a lopsided rivalry game with Clemson rolling over the Gamecocks like a steamroller. Not so fast.
This game could be one of those weird upsets that happen in late-season play. Rivalry games are always tricky to call, and Will Muschamp has brought the Gamecocks from the cellar in the SEC East to second in the division. The Gamecocks are itching for revenge from last season’s embarrassing rout against their in-state foes.
Right now, South Carolina is a two-touchdown underdog, but if they can overcome a few issues they can give Clemson a ball game. An additional Tiger loss could put them out of contention for a run at the CFP, and you know that Muschamp and company are well aware of that.
Here’s how you can watch Saturday’s Palmetto State showdown:
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Date: Saturday, Nov. 25
Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
Location: Columbia, S.C.
Venue: Wlliams-Brice Stadium
TV: ESPN
Live Stream: WatchESPN
Keys to Victory
Clemson’s defense is awesome. There is no getting around that fact. They are not the team they were in 2016, though, and Syracuse proved that they can be beaten. What can South Carolina do to stop the Tigers?
Offensive play will be crucial for the Gamecocks on Saturday. If they can hold onto the ball and move the ball effectively, they have a chance for an equal playing field. Clemson’s secondary is one of the team’s few weak points, and if South Carolina can get its massive receivers moving they might have a shot. Granted, these are all big “if” statements. The Gamecocks play best at a slower pace, and Clemson’s uptempo style isn’t going to give them that pace.
The Tigers don’t have the explosive offense of 2016, but they can still move the ball with Swiss watch precision. USC’s defense is going to have to make those tackles if they want to hang with the Tigers.
Betting Odds
All odds via SportsBook Review
Point Spread: Clemson -14
Over/Under: 46.5
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Prediction
As an ACC girl, I would love to see Clemson dance in and manhandle the ball all 60 minutes. Looking at past history, I’d say this is a safe bet. I think it is going to be much closer than it has been in past seasons, but South Carolina has a lot of work to do before they can snap the Tigers’ five-game streak in this rivalry.
Final Score: Clemson 35, South Carolina 23