Clemson Football: Scouting report vs. South Carolina

For the first time since 2013, both Clemson football and South Carolina enter rivalry weekend ranked inside the top 25. Can the Tigers extend their winning streak to four games, or will the Gamecocks end the streak at three?

When? Saturday, November 25, 2017, 7:30 pm ET.

Where? Williams-Bryce Stadium (Columbia, South Carolina)

2016 Record: 6-7 (3-5 SEC)

Head Coach: Will Muschamp (2nd year)

Betting line: -16 Clemson

Returning starters: 16 total, 10 offensive, 6 defensive

In just his second season under the helm in Columbia, Will Muschamp has the Gamecocks sitting second in the SEC East, behind the Georgia Bulldogs. Considering how bare the cupboard was when Muschamp arrived in 2016, South Carolina is ahead of schedule.

Clemson vs. South Carolina:

Despite their 8-3 record, South Carolina doesn’t have the depth to pose as a serious threat to Clemson just yet.

South Carolina’s best hope in this contest is their improved defense. Clemson has an excess of talent on the offensive side of the ball, however, they can become one-dimensional at times. The Gamecocks must contain the Tigers’ physical rushing attack if they hope of competing in this matchup.

Kelly Bryant is completing 66 percent of his passes coming into this week, yet majority of his completions come at 10 yards or less. The Tigers rank 70th in the nation in long passing plays. It’ll be interesting to see if Clemson can stress this Gamecocks’ defenses vertically. The Tigers ability to create chunk plays may decide this matchup.

On the flip side of the ball, Clemson should have no issues slowing South Carolina’s talented offense. Jake Bentley is one of the top young signal callers in the nation, however, he cannot put up points all by himself. The Tigers’ dominant front seven is second the country in sacks, with 39 on the year. As such, Bentley will be forced to extend plays with his legs and throw from awkward positions. He must play a near perfect game to give South Carolina a shot in this one.

Next: Gamecock Killers - Tommy Bowden

While I don’t expect a 56-0 blowout like 2016, the Tigers should win this one convincingly.