Saturday Blitz
Fansided

Clemson Football: 3 Bold Predictions for Tigers in Sugar Bowl

By Michael Hanich

GLENDALE, ARIZONA - DECEMBER 28: Running back Travis Etienne #9 of the Clemson Tigers rushes the football against the Ohio State Buckeyes during the PlayStation Fiesta Bowl at State Farm Stadium on December 28, 2019 in Glendale, Arizona. The Tigers defeated the Buckeyes 29-23. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
GLENDALE, ARIZONA - DECEMBER 28: Running back Travis Etienne #9 of the Clemson Tigers rushes the football against the Ohio State Buckeyes during the PlayStation Fiesta Bowl at State Farm Stadium on December 28, 2019 in Glendale, Arizona. The Tigers defeated the Buckeyes 29-23. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
3 of 4
Next
. (Photo by Ralph Freso/Getty Images)
. (Photo by Ralph Freso/Getty Images) /

2. The Tigers Will Force Multiple Turnovers from Justin Fields

The Buckeyes have experienced some tough games this season on the offensive side of the ball even with a more experienced and determined Justin Fields at quarterback. While the Buckeyes have the eighth-ranked scoring offense in the nation as they average 42.5 points per game. Their passing game is ranked 46th in the nation in passing yards per game (234.2) despite having two talented receivers in Chris Olave and Garrett Wilson.

In the 2020 Big Ten championship game against the Northwestern, Fields struggled significantly against a highly efficient defense of Northwestern. Fields passed for 114 yards, two interceptions, and a QBR of 34.9 on 12 completions (out of 27 passing attempts). The Wildcats were able to put consistent pressure on Fields forcing him to make mistakes.

The Tigers defense has more talented playmakers in the secondary and pass rushers. Freshman defensive end Myles Murphy has accounted for 34 total tackles, nine tackles for loss, four sacks, and three forced fumbles. Safety Nolan Turner has accounted for 51 total tackles and three interceptions. He will be a player to watch out for in this game if Fields is under tremendous pressure and trying to make a big play happen.

Fields could potentially throw another two interceptions against the Tigers’ defense as well as lose the ball down on a key drive. Ohio State will try to rely on Fields more as the Tigers’ defense ranks ninth in the nation in rushing yards allowed per game (97.8). Buckeyes running back Trey Sermon had an excellent game against Northwestern, but Clemson will be ready for him.

Home/Clemson Tigers