Clemson vs. North Carolina State: Game Preview and Prediction
Date: September 21, 2024
Location: Memorial Stadium, Clemson, SC
Kickoff: 12:00 PM ET
TV: ABC
Overview
The Clemson Tigers are set to face the North Carolina State Wolfpack in a highly anticipated ACC opener. Both teams are eager to make a statement, with Clemson looking to bounce back from an early-season loss to Georgia and NC State aiming to overcome the absence of their starting quarterback, Grayson McCall.
Offense vs. Defense
Clemson Offense vs. NC State Defense
Clemson’s offense, led by quarterback Cade Klubnik, has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in their dominant win over Appalachian State. Klubnik, who accounted for seven total touchdowns in that game, will be key to Clemson’s success. Running back Phil Mafah is expected to carry a significant load, especially with the Wolfpack’s defense focusing on stopping the run.
NC State’s defense, while strong, has struggled to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Linebacker Payton Wilson and cornerback Aydan White will need to step up to contain Clemson’s explosive playmakers . Defensive coordinator Tony Gibson will likely employ a mix of blitzes to disrupt Klubnik’s rhythm.
Quotes:
• Dabo Swinney, Clemson Head Coach: “NC State’s a good football team…big rivalry game every year. It’s been around for a long, long time” .
• Dave Doeren, NC State Head Coach: “We need to get the job done down there, and that’s something we haven’t done. We’ve been close, close doesn’t get it done”.
NC State Offense vs. Clemson Defense
With freshman quarterback C.J. Bailey making his first start, NC State’s offense faces a daunting task against a formidable Clemson defense. Bailey showed promise in relief last week, but Clemson’s defense, led by linebacker Barrett Carter and defensive tackle DeMonte Capehart, will look to exploit his inexperience.
Clemson’s secondary, anchored by safety RJ Mickens, will aim to shut down NC State’s top receiver, Kevin Concepcion, who has been a bright spot for the Wolfpack. The Tigers’ defensive line will focus on containing the run game, forcing Bailey to make plays under pressure.
Quotes:
• C.J. Bailey, NC State Quarterback: “Expecting to go into Death Valley hearing a crowd and hearing everybody screaming and try to get into our heads, but I’m expecting it. We’re practicing for it, so I’ll be prepared”
•
Barrett Carter, Clemson Linebacker: “We’re preparing hard, because knowing going into this game that they beat us last year, so they have an edge over us”
Special Teams
Special teams could play a crucial role in this matchup.
Clemson’s kicker Robert Gunn III has been reliable, while NC State will miss the consistency of their former Lou Groza Award-winning kicker, Christopher Dunn . Field position and the ability to convert on special teams will be pivotal.
Prediction
Clemson’s balanced attack and home-field advantage should prove too much for the Wolfpack. Expect the Tigers to control the game with their running game and defensive pressure, ultimately securing a 35-17 victory.
Final Score Prediction: Clemson 35, NC State 17
