Clemson and Pitt preview

Despite being blown out by Georgia and nearly written off, the Tigers are still well in the mix of the ACC race and a road win against Pittsburgh would almost assure their place in the championship game.  They lost at home a few weeks ago to Louisville but bounced back nicely on the road the last time out against Virginia Tech.  The team has won seven of its last eight games, and confidence continues to be high.  Games remain against The Citadel and South Carolina, with the rivalry game likely challenging. However, the Tigers will want to keep the momentum flowing and build on that winning streak as they close out the season.

This season, the offense has seen a resurgence after taking a step back in recent years.   In total yards, they rank seventh in the country, while in rushing, they rank 26th, and in passing, they rank 24th.   Because of their balance of offense and defense, the Tigers have been difficult to slow down, and they will be very excited to face a Pittsburgh defense that ranks 114th nationally against the pass.   Considering that Klubnik (24 touchdowns, 4 interceptions) is on the fringes of the Heisman conversation, Klubnik has plenty of options against a depleted secondary, as he has seven receivers with multiple touchdowns to choose from.   Having said that, it is also important for the Tigers to take advantage of their running back Phil Mafah, who is on pace for a first 1,000-yard rushing season.  He has thrived in his final season and will be needed against Pitt's stingy run defense.