Preview: #16 Clemson Tigers @ #14 Georgia Bulldogs
Date: 30/8/2014
Time: 17:30 ET
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Players to Watch
Todd Gurley, running back (Bulldogs): Gurley is a potential first-round pick in the 2015 NFL Draft and the key to Georgia’s season. He is a fierce ball carrier who is not afraid to drop his shoulder and hit a defender while also possessing a certain level of elusiveness.
Leonard Floyd, defensive end (Bulldogs): Floyd broke onto the scene as a freshman in 2013 with 6.5 sacks, 9.5 tackles for a loss and two forced fumbles. He has a tremendous motor and a quick first step. Look for the young pass rusher to get after Clemson quarterback Cole Stoudt early.
Vic Beasley, defensive end (Tigers): Beasley is one of the best defensive ends in college football and would likely have been a first-round draft pick in May’s draft had he declared. 13 sacks and 23 tackles for a loss are serious numbers and he will be off to a fast start again come Saturday.
Mike Williams, wide receiver (Tigers): The young pass catcher has big boots to fill after Sammy Watkins and Martavis Bryant bolted to the NFL. As a freshman he caught 20 passes at over 15 yards per reception. He has displayed great pedigree throughout high school and the early stages of his college career, can he rise up and be the number one target?
Bulldogs’ Offense Vs Tigers’ Defense
Hutson Mason spent time in charge of the offense towards the back end of last season when Aaron Murray suffered a season-ending knee injury. He will take care of the ball and target established receivers Michael Bennett and Chris Conley. Nevertheless, a strong game from him will feature zero turnovers as the Bulldogs’ look to negate the threat of Beasley by putting the ball in the hands of Gurley and the other backs.
Tigers’ Offense Vs Bulldogs’ Defense
Stoudt has spent his entire college career backing up Tajh Boyd and knows the system better than anybody. Furthermore, he has seen plenty of action spelling the former star and he threw five touchdown passes last season. Georgia’s defense should be in good shape as Clemson look to find out who their true offensive playmakers are, with linebacker Ramik Wilson ready to feast on any breakdowns.
Game Preview
Both teams will have new, yet experienced, starters under center for the first time in three years. It will be a test for both head coaches to see what they have to work with the rest of the campaign.
Clemson snatched a 38-35 victory when the two met on the opening week last year, and Georgia will be looking to make amends and ensure their season is not derailed before it has begun.
Ultimately, the side that takes the win will be the one which settles early and knocks the other out of rhythm.
Implications
I don’t think either team are under any illusions that they are good enough to be in the top-four come December. However, both are turning a new page within their respective programs and will not want to drop from the top tier of football. A loss is not the end of the world but it could have ramifications later in the season if they each end with the same record.
Prediction
I think the Tigers’ offense has too much to overcome and, although their defense is supremely talented, Gurley and the receivers will do enough to get Mason through the contest. Tigers 24-28 Bulldogs