Clemson Football: Scouting report vs. Miami Hurricanes
Clemson football tries for their third straight ACC Championship versus the Miami Hurricanes this weekend. Here’s all you need to know about the ‘Canes.
When? Saturday, December 2, 2017, 8:00 pm ET.
Where? Bank of America Stadium (Charlotte, North Carolina)
2016 Record: 9-4 (5-3 ACC)
Head Coach: Mark Richt (2nd year)
Betting line: -6 Clemson
Returning starters: 15 total, 7 offensive, 8 defensive
After suffering a loss to Pitt in their regular season finale, Miami looks to secure its first ACC title in program history against Clemson. A win would also likely catapult the ‘Canes into the College Football Playoff.
Scouting Report
Miami’s stout defense has been the catalyst for their near perfect season. Led by fiery defensive coordinator, Mani Diaz, the Hurricanes have one of the most balanced units in the country. It all starts upfront with the Canes athletic front seven. Equally disruptive stopping the run and rushing the passer, Miami has given up just 6 rushing touchdowns on the year, while also recording 39 sacks thus far.
The ‘Canes overall speed on defense has torn opponents apart this season. Poke fun at the turnover chain all you want, but, they wouldn’t wear it all they time if they weren’t constantly causing takeaways. Miami has recorded 29 takeaways through this point in the season.
Offensively, the Hurricanes are much more vulnerable. While Malik Rosier has played well up until this point, he has yet to face a defense like Clemson’s. A former baseball player, Rosier is a deceptive athlete, capable of hurting opponents on the ground. His inconsistencies throwing the football could spell trouble against the Tigers’ long secondary.
Miami has given up 22 sacks on the year. Given Clemson’s elite talent along the defensive line, this may be a deciding factor in this contest. Games, especially championship contests, are won and lost in the trenches. This will be a good battle to keep an eye on.
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At the moment, I’d given Clemson the edge solely based upon the fact that they have extensive playing on big stages. If this game is close down the stretch, advantage Clemson.