Note: This is part of The Diamondback’s print version preview. TERP GAMEDAY, which can be viewed here.
C.J. Spiller has rushed for 245 yards against Maryland in his career. Photo courtesy of TigersXtra.com
OFFENSE
Advantage: Clemson
Clemson has struggled at quarterback, with baseball player Kyle Parker thrust into action and completing under 50 percent of his passes. But running back C.J. Spiller is one of the nation’s best.
Oh, and after last week, the Terps aren’t getting this category against any team in the country.
After the jump, analysis of defense, special teams, coaching and intangibles.
DEFENSE
Advantage: Clemson
Clemson is annually among the most talented and athletic teams in the conference, and this team is no exception. The Tigers boast a top-caliber defensive line and secondary.
The Terps showed tremendous improvement against Rutgers. But they’re not on the same level.
SPECIAL TEAMS
Advantage: Clemson
Spiller and teammate Jacoby Ford are two of the best return men in the country, and the Tigers have three touchdown returns already this year.
The Terps are without All-ACC punter Travis Baltz, and Friedgen has not been satisfied with coverage or return units so far this season.
COACHING
Advantage: Clemson
Both of these teams could easily have another win, possibly two, on their records.
While those losses are often chalked up to coaching, it’s tough to say exactly how much Dabo Swinney or Friedgen could do with inexperience at key positions. But Swinney has the edge as he’s stayed off the hot seat.
INTANGIBLES
Advantage: Clemson
The intangibles don’t particularly stack up in either team’s favors, until you consider the Terps’ turnover and penalty issues that have led them to miserable field position in recent weeks.
That could prove to be the deciding factor this week — if the Terps can even keep it close.
ajoseph@umdbk.com