J
Let me be the first to say.
Clemson is about to win the national title. I'll eat my crow if necessary but I see Bama as 1 dimensional and Clemson has the horses to shut/slow down Derick Henry. Bama also struggles with mobile quarterbacks.
Clemson is about to win the national title. I'll eat my crow if necessary but I see Bama as 1 dimensional and Clemson has the horses to shut/slow down Derick Henry. Bama also struggles with mobile quarterbacks.
Yes you do......you have a much better quarterback in my opinion. I think OU would defeat Bama, and since you beat OU....well, there you have it. Besides, I'd rather lose in the playoffs to the National Champ.......makes me feel better. Now, go kick Bamas ***.
I almost feel like jumping on this train of thought in thinking Clemson is a huge favorite to win. But MSU has always been known for having sick defenses and they were unable to stop Alabama's one dimensional offense.
Add to that Clemson most likely hasn't faced a defense that is as physical as Alabama all season. Clemson won't have the luxury of just being able to out muscle Alabama like they did OU.
I agree. I believe Alabama will have an answer for putting the clamps on Clemson's run game including Watson. I think Bama wins but that's just my opinion.
Dabo and Clemson remind me of Bud Grant and the Vilkngs. They can't win the big one. I heard today that Alabama has won the last 12 against Clemson. Maybe this year will end the streak, but I don't think so. I do expect a better showing from Clemson than MSU put up. Watson could steal a win for the Tigers. I'd like to see Dabo get one. And Brent, too.
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KCtornado
Guest
Clemson played a flawless game against the Sooners. I can sense that may not be the case against the opportunistic Bama D. It seems to me that their depth is stronger than Clemson's. I am going 34-17 Bama.
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OUSOONER67
Guest
I thought bama was one dimensional too but I think they had 286 passing yds passing on MSU and Henry was pretty much held in check with around 75 yds on 20 carries while Kenyon Drake for bama had 60 yds with 4 carries with a long of 58. I am not so sure they are one dimensional. That said I think bama's defense will slow Clemson down enough and win going away 35-24, would prefer Clemson to win but after the fans that came here, roll tide!
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rkhufu7
Guest
Clemson is the #1 ranked team, not Bama. Clemson has better talent than OU and a true dual threat at QB that has passed for 3500 plus yards and over 30 TDs. Bama runs the WC offense with some spread concepts added in. Remember their OC is the former USC OC, Kiffin and they can take advantage of a sellout defense and they get the top recruiting class each year.
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I hope Clemson hangs 50 plus on Bama. Eff the tide, send an aOm fan to rape their elephant...
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FreeSC
Guest
I certainly don't think we played a flawless game against you guys; far from it. Early in the game, Deshaun was OFF on his passes, more than I have ever seen him, but he did catch fire later. Also, the pass interference call on the pass that landed 3 yards out of bounds extended one of your drives that would have been stopped, resulting in a TD. I know, there are calls that went against you guys that you don't think were deserved, too.
Anyway, I looked up NCAA total offense and total defense on OU and Clemson prior to our game, which was a major input to me being able to generate a close prediction on the score of our game. Of course, you have to factor in the strength of the teams' opponents and take the statistics accordingly, but it does usually get you an idea of what will happen.
Anyway, here are the NCAA statistics for all 4 playoff teams:
Total Defense rank, YPG Total Offense rank, YPG
Clemson # 7 # 11
OU # 39 # 7
Alabama # 2 # 51
MichSt #26 # 73
When I compared your previous opponents to Clemson, Tenn had one of the best defenses that you played, and they ranked something like # 45. Given that you scored about 24 on them in regulation, I thought you would score less than that against Clemson (better defensive ranking), and I was right. I also compared your defensive ranking against offenses that we had faced, and guessed that Clemson would score in the upper 30s. Again, I was right.
If you look at the Clemson vs. Alabama match, some might be surprised that the Clemson's defensive ranking is quite close to Alabama's. Some would say that Alabama's defense is actually MUCH better than Clemson's, but the statistics don't show it because the SEC is so good as a league. However, the numbers just don't back that up. The SEC is NOT a powerful offense kind of league, like yours is. If fact, there is a total absence of elite quarterbacks in the SEC right now; quite a change from just a couple of years ago when several SEC teams had great QBs.
The most socking thing is that Alabama's offense is ranked VERY average. Given all the press Henry has gotten, it's actually socking. But until a couple of nights ago, Alabama has been a one trick pony, rarely throwing the ball. They were successful against Mich St because their defense; especially in the secondary, is actually average to poor. That is NOT the case with Clemson.
I think Clemson has the diversity and the play selection to handle Alabama. Bama has actually barely skidded by a number of teams who are not exactly power houses, such as Ark and Tenn.; and Clemson is strong enough across the board on Defense to seriously slow Alabama down.
Alabama's game again Ole Miss is a great comparison. Ole Miss' offense is quite similar to Clemson's, and is ranked # 10, very comparable to Clemson; but the QB play isn't nearly on the same level. Ole Miss scored a ton of points on Alabama (including one LUCKY TD that they really shouldn't have gotten). Difference is Ole Miss' defense is ranked # 54 !!!!! Which explains why they couldn't slow Bama down. But Clemson CAN.
When considering all this, and looking at Alabama's opponents, I feel VERY confident in our ability to beat the Tide.
Everyone has an opinion. But I base mine on knowledge of the other team's opponents and the NUMBERS. I find my results are usually pretty close...
The last time Clemson played Bama was 2008. The time before that was 1975. Not exactly sure how that 12-game winning streak has anything to to with this game, but maybe it does.
I think the Clemson Bama game will be similar to the Sugar bowl where we beat them. MSU was tailor made for Alabama. Same exact sort of team that they are but with slower and weaker players. Bama should have roasted them and they did.
The two semi final games were matched spread vs spread and power vs power for a reason. They wanted the top spread versus the top power in the final and that is what the game will be about.
The Clemson OU game and the Bama Michigan State game results will have nothing to do with how the final will be played.
Clemson will match up better against Alabama than we would have this year. Their OL and DL's are bigger and better than ours which will give Bama fits.
Just because Alabama threw for a bunch of yards against Mich State doesn't mean Coker has finally turned the corner. It just meant he was on that day. TK9 did that against Bama before right. It does not mean it is something that will be consistent.
Clemson will be able to put pressure on Alabama provided they can keep Henry somewhat at bay.
I will say Clemson 31 Bama 30 for my wild guess.
The two semi final games were matched spread vs spread and power vs power for a reason. They wanted the top spread versus the top power in the final and that is what the game will be about.
The Clemson OU game and the Bama Michigan State game results will have nothing to do with how the final will be played.
Clemson will match up better against Alabama than we would have this year. Their OL and DL's are bigger and better than ours which will give Bama fits.
Just because Alabama threw for a bunch of yards against Mich State doesn't mean Coker has finally turned the corner. It just meant he was on that day. TK9 did that against Bama before right. It does not mean it is something that will be consistent.
Clemson will be able to put pressure on Alabama provided they can keep Henry somewhat at bay.
I will say Clemson 31 Bama 30 for my wild guess.
I only heard about the 12 game streak this weekend, so I agree with your point. However, Dabo is bothered about the media commenting on Clemson's past failures. Regardless, after watching each team play, I do feel the best two are playing for the championship and would like to see Dabo get his first natty. I think there is a chance, but honestly if I were betting (and I probably will), I would go with Bama to win the game. The Tigers and the points MAYBE. Not sure yet.
You point proves that you should of skip the question entirely. Comparing a soft overrated MSU team to Clemson is like comparing Texas A&M to Oklahoma.
Clemson just seems to have that "it" factor this season. They play with a lot of passion and they are probably hungrier than Bama given they haven't won a NC since 81.
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Tigerman1969
Guest
LOL Obviously you haven't watched us all year long . Teams that have attempted to shut down our run game have fell victim to our passing attack. This is the most balanced offense we have ever had and Watson has the skills to win in any way.
I think you guys have a great chance against the CT. But you're about to play a different animal. You have all the right factors to beat them. Your quarterback is mobile and can also throw it. And you can play with enough pace to keep them from using their preferred substitution packages. But your lines will not dominate them. And with their athleticism, size and strength on defense, if you run your quarterback too much, he will take a pounding. He's not bigger than their linebackers.
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ctsoonerfan
Guest
Is the suspended WR playing for Clemson?
After watching Clemson handle OU at the point of attack I would think they have the players to make that battle a wash against Alabama. Maybe the Bama DL can take advantage of the Clemson OL, but the Clemson skilled players on O are light years ahead of MSU. Clemson can play balanced with their 7 up front and keep Henry honest, their safeties and corner (as he demonstrated) can shut down the WR/TE from Bama since they have nothing special on that side.
The big difference will be the size of the game. Satan has been there and done that and he will hope that experience will allow Bama to jump Clemson early.
I see a game much like the OU game. BV will see what attack Kiffin wants to run and then adjust. Bama will take an early lead but Clemson will win by at least 7.
After watching Clemson handle OU at the point of attack I would think they have the players to make that battle a wash against Alabama. Maybe the Bama DL can take advantage of the Clemson OL, but the Clemson skilled players on O are light years ahead of MSU. Clemson can play balanced with their 7 up front and keep Henry honest, their safeties and corner (as he demonstrated) can shut down the WR/TE from Bama since they have nothing special on that side.
The big difference will be the size of the game. Satan has been there and done that and he will hope that experience will allow Bama to jump Clemson early.
I see a game much like the OU game. BV will see what attack Kiffin wants to run and then adjust. Bama will take an early lead but Clemson will win by at least 7.
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FreeSC
Guest
No, Deon Cain is not playing. Suspended until he proves he is committed to making good decisions.
THIS is the game:
The #12 offense (Clemson) vs. the # 2 defense (Alabama).
The # 51 offense (Alabama) vs. the # 6 defense (Clemson).
Clemson is better (or equal to the best) on both sides of the ball than anyone Alabama has played this year.
Alabama is the best on defense Clemson has seen; but is the 4th best offense Clemson has seen - well below Oklahoma.
It's not opinion. It's statistics.
You tell me.
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LongTimeSooner
Guest
I think Clemson has a great shot, here's why:
1. Bama is one dimensional, and their QB is not a good improv guy. Passing against MSU who loaded the box to stop Henry isn't a great benchmark to use. Clemson can do both.
2. SEC teams are always overhyped, especially Bama.
3. Clemson can control field position and Time of Possession much more effectively than Bama.
1. Bama is one dimensional, and their QB is not a good improv guy. Passing against MSU who loaded the box to stop Henry isn't a great benchmark to use. Clemson can do both.
2. SEC teams are always overhyped, especially Bama.
3. Clemson can control field position and Time of Possession much more effectively than Bama.
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ctsoonerfan
Guest
I am not a really big raw stats guy as it becomes difficult to normalize for game situations, opposition, weather, momentum, home/away; gut tells me that Clemson is on one of those runs, has balance and options offensively and defensively and that means 'Bama can't exploit one thing.
Like I said 'Bama's one advantage is having been there and done that.
If you're going to rely on stats, at least don't rely on simple raw stats like yards or points per game. Among many other factors that raw stats fail to capture is the fact Bama's offense operates at a different pace than Clemson's. Offensive efficiency stats are far more useful measures than points or yards per game.
Advanced stats (S&P+ and FEI) have Clemson ranking between 10th and 12th offense and Alabama ranking between 25th and 29th. If you're going to rely on stats, rely on those.
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SoonerTulsan
Guest
The entire game I was praying Watson WOULD throw the ball. He's a great running QB...average passing QB. Clemson's defense didn't slow down OUr offense as much as OUr offense slowed themselves down. I see virtually 2 teams that run best...by far. So it boils down to who can take away the run. OUr front 7 isn't as deep or as good as Bama's. Gotta like Bama.
I believe this is Alabama's game to win. I can see a close first half before Alabama pulls away.
Coker is a better QB than he was in September. I think he will prove it.
Coker is a better QB than he was in September. I think he will prove it.
I think it's all about preparation.....Alabama and Clemson had several weeks to prepare for their semifinal opponents with only a week to prepare for a game between themselves, so which team will have the edge?...
Alabama as mentioned above prepared for a team much like themselves but without as much talent as the Crimson Tide...And the result was a beatdown that a lot of us seen coming...
Clemson on the other hand, had to prepare for a team with a lot of offensive weapons like themselves, and a team that was clearly motivated to beat the Tigers after Clemson ended OU's season last year in the Russell Atheletic Bowl....Most in the media felt that the Sooners would have the motivational edge in this game, so they made Clemson an underdog, and we know how that turned out...
Once again, the odds makers have made Clemson a 6 or 7 point underdog to the Tide even though Clemson is unbeaten, and has been the committee's choice as the nation's #1 team since their first vote was cast in October....
Dabo Swinney is at his best when his team is considered an Underdog, and he's a native and alumnus of Alabama, and was a member on the 92' national championshp team under former Tide Coach Gene Stallings, and his team knows that, and will be very inspired and motivated to play against a Crimson Tide team that Clemson is 0-12 against all time....
Both teams have the swagger, but Alabama has more depth and recent experience in these type of games, so which team will be more nervous at the beginning: The Tide who most everyone outside Clemson believes is going to win, or will it be Clemson who has proved all the doubters wrong up to this point, and is playing the "No Respect" card?
By the way, I'm not a Clemson fan, but I do live within an hour or so of Clemson, and I've seen first hand the rise of the Tigers since Dabo and Venables became a team, and it's hard to pick against Clemson on the big stage at the moment, especially when you consider who the Tigers have beaten in just the last few years: LSU,TOSU,Oklahoma,Notre Dame Ga. FSU...etc....Admittably, Clemson was gut-stomped the last time that they played the Crimson Tide in Atlanta, but Dabo was not in charge when that happened, and the culture of the football program has drastically changed since that game as Venables wasn't on the staff either for that last encounter with Alabama...
Clemson has never had a QB like Deshawn Watson who has a very calm demeaner under center, and has the ability to run as well as throw the ball....These type of teams the last few years have given Kirby Smart and the Alabama defense a lot of trouble....
Clemson also has the ability in the secondary to cover Bama's WRs much better than a lot of teams can, but will the Tigers be able to put pressure on Coker with their stud All-American DL(Shaq Lawson) not at full strength, and what defensive scheme will Venables come up with to slow down Derrick Henry?
This is really a tough game to figure out, but Clemson most definitely has a shot to win this game, but they will need to jump on the Crimson Tide early for that to happen IMO....Of course, I will be rooting for the Tigers since they are from the ACC...
Alabama as mentioned above prepared for a team much like themselves but without as much talent as the Crimson Tide...And the result was a beatdown that a lot of us seen coming...
Clemson on the other hand, had to prepare for a team with a lot of offensive weapons like themselves, and a team that was clearly motivated to beat the Tigers after Clemson ended OU's season last year in the Russell Atheletic Bowl....Most in the media felt that the Sooners would have the motivational edge in this game, so they made Clemson an underdog, and we know how that turned out...
Once again, the odds makers have made Clemson a 6 or 7 point underdog to the Tide even though Clemson is unbeaten, and has been the committee's choice as the nation's #1 team since their first vote was cast in October....
Dabo Swinney is at his best when his team is considered an Underdog, and he's a native and alumnus of Alabama, and was a member on the 92' national championshp team under former Tide Coach Gene Stallings, and his team knows that, and will be very inspired and motivated to play against a Crimson Tide team that Clemson is 0-12 against all time....
Both teams have the swagger, but Alabama has more depth and recent experience in these type of games, so which team will be more nervous at the beginning: The Tide who most everyone outside Clemson believes is going to win, or will it be Clemson who has proved all the doubters wrong up to this point, and is playing the "No Respect" card?
By the way, I'm not a Clemson fan, but I do live within an hour or so of Clemson, and I've seen first hand the rise of the Tigers since Dabo and Venables became a team, and it's hard to pick against Clemson on the big stage at the moment, especially when you consider who the Tigers have beaten in just the last few years: LSU,TOSU,Oklahoma,Notre Dame Ga. FSU...etc....Admittably, Clemson was gut-stomped the last time that they played the Crimson Tide in Atlanta, but Dabo was not in charge when that happened, and the culture of the football program has drastically changed since that game as Venables wasn't on the staff either for that last encounter with Alabama...
Clemson has never had a QB like Deshawn Watson who has a very calm demeaner under center, and has the ability to run as well as throw the ball....These type of teams the last few years have given Kirby Smart and the Alabama defense a lot of trouble....
Clemson also has the ability in the secondary to cover Bama's WRs much better than a lot of teams can, but will the Tigers be able to put pressure on Coker with their stud All-American DL(Shaq Lawson) not at full strength, and what defensive scheme will Venables come up with to slow down Derrick Henry?
This is really a tough game to figure out, but Clemson most definitely has a shot to win this game, but they will need to jump on the Crimson Tide early for that to happen IMO....Of course, I will be rooting for the Tigers since they are from the ACC...
The game will not be high scoring because The Tide will stifle Clemson and since Coker will not have a lot of big windows they will not take chances on offense. Bama will win because of vastly superior special teams. They have a FG kicker so is a threat from 56-57 yards and can take advantage of the primary weakness that The Tiggs have - punt coverage and KO coverage. The Tide will have 2 or 3 huge returns and it will change the game, corning several Clemson Turnovers.