Clemson Football: 3 Bold Predictions for Tigers in Sugar Bowl

3. Clemson Will Win the Battle at the Line of Scrimmage

One of the biggest reasons that the Clemson Tigers are favored is their consistent play at the line of scrimmage as compared to the Buckeyes. Through 11 games this season for the Tigers, the offensive line has only given up 17 sacks. Their most disappointing performance was in the 47-40 loss in overtime to Notre Dame, where they gave up two sacks and 10 tackles for loss.

Since that loss, the offensive line for Clemson has been highly efficient in protecting quarterback Lawrence and not allowing mistakes such as tackles in the backfield.

Offensive tackle Jackson Carman and guard Matt Bockhorst were selected as second-team All-ACC but none were selected in the All-American teams. The Tigers’ offensive line has played consistently as a unit rather than played as individuals. They will be defending against a Buckeyes’ defense that has accounted for only 17 sacks through six games. They will fair much at keeping the pocket for Lawrence clean against the Buckeyes than against Notre Dame.

On the other side of the ball, the Tigers’ defensive line is still aggressive and consistent in creating chaos in the opposing backfield. The Tigers’ defense has accumulated 102 tackles for loss and 44 sacks throughout the season. The Buckeyes’ offensive line has given up 18 sacks on a dual-threat high-caliber quarterback like Fields.

The Tigers have the edge at both sides of the line of scrimmage which will make it difficult for Ohio State to have any form of consistency unless they find weaknesses.