Cotton Bowl Classic Preview: #3 Notre Dame vs. #2 Clemson
Prediction
Coming into the season, I felt very strong about the Clemson Tigers and their season. With a smothering defense, a hard-nosed run game that can gash at any moment and a confident head coach that has established himself in the upper echelon, the Tigers have more than what it takes to be national champions by season’s end.
Even with the dicey move to insert the freshman Lawrence as the starter during the season, Clemson has rolled and has not missed a beat.
Notre Dame went unscathed during the season although they were met once again questions about the quality of their victories and lack of placement in a conference championship game.
Entering this game with a chip on their shoulder is probably likely and it should not be a surprise if they play a little looser than their opponent.
For both teams, the run game has been critical in their offensive success although it does not get the deserved headlines. Taking pressure off their young quarterbacks will be needed in this one. Look for both clubs to attempt to find a comfort zone early on in the rushing department.
Ultimately, it will likely come down to which quarterback is able to play his game favorably. Both teams have veteran-led defenses that can flip the game based on costly mistakes. While Book is the more experienced, Lawrence is the more talented and thanks to the elite talent around him, much will not be asked of him.
A safe game plan for Lawrence and the offense and a defense that has championship pedigree is a combination for a victory for the Tigers.