Clemson vs. South Carolina: Keys, Preview and Prediction

It’s rivalry week — and in the state of South Carolina, perhaps nobody is more excited than Clemson Tigers fans as they watch their squad sit atop the College Football Rankings yet again in this week’s edition. Just ahead of Alabama, Dabo Swinney and Co. look to continue their reign in a week that the season is played for — South Carolina week.

Here’s what Clemson has to do to continue their dominance and more importantly, stay in the top spot as December begins.

Clemson wins by…

1. Allowing Deshaun Watson to play his game: If the Tigers are looking for the most important aspect of this one, they’ll glance no further than the quarterback leading the way. Watson’s game has been near Heisman-worthy this season, and it isn’t just those in Clemson making that claim. His national attention is a much deserved spotlight with the world watching. The Tigers must keep the game plan simple, play their game and let the chips fall in their favor. Even if Watson is off, these guys should win big on the road.
2. Putting the game out of reach once the third quarter rolls around: If there’s one thing that South Carolina’s record doesn’t show, it’s their ability to stick around and fight until the final snaps. During their four-game losing streak, the Gamecocks have fallen by less than 10 points — three of their losses coming by just a score. The #1 team in the country can’t allow SC to have any control, at home, as the minutes tick down.
3. For Brent Venables, building off momentum early: Venables’ defense has sparked by clutch key plays and impressive play all season long. As the Tigers close out the season, it’s critical for the defensive unit to keep their swagger and capitalize on their offense’s firepower. Watson and his group will score — with a few early defensive stands, this game will take shape very quickly.

Prediction

South Carolina keeps it close at home, but the Tigers prove that they’re the #1 team for a reason.

Clemson wins, 33-20.