Clemson football and Virginia Tech have two of the better offenses in the ACC. That being said, don’t expect this matchup to end in a shootout.
Offense sells tickets and defense wins championships.
The Tigers entered this week averaging 37.8 points per game to the Hokies 40. It’s no wonder why Clemson and Virginia Tech have some of the best home attendance in the country.
The reason both programs consistently compete for ACC Championships, however, is less appreciated. Clemson and Virginia Tech’s have two of the best defenses in the nation. The Tigers’ are holding opponents to 9.3 points per game, while the Hokies allow just 10.3 points per game.
Thoughts
As good as both offenses have been thus far, they may struggle to find the endzone this weekend.
Clemson’s offense in particular can become one-dimensional at times. The Tigers rank 13th in the country in rushing offense and 63rd in passing offense. Starting quarterback, Kelly Bryant is an able passer, but, his legs are his best attribute. Force him to stay in the pocket and you will slow this offense considerably. Virginia Tech’s stout rushing defense will test this Tigers’ potent ground attack.
The Hokies feature a more balanced offensive attack, but, they have yet to face a defense like Clemson’s. Coming into this matchup, the Tigers’ are allowing just 227 total yards of offense per game.
This game offers an interesting matchup of strengths. Tech currently ranks 13th in the country in long scrimmage plays, while Clemson’s defense ranks 14th in the country in long scrimmage plays allowed. Explosive plays may be a tipping point in this contest.
Next: Will Travis Etienne be the leading rusher vs. Virginia Tech?
As you can see, Clemson and Virginia Tech are evenly matched. Defense is going to decide this one. Both programs have a wealth of talent and two of the best defensive coordinators in the country. This game will be the ultimate chess match.