Preview: #20 Clemson vs. Pittsburgh
Records and Conference Standings
The #20 Clemson Tigers (7-2) and the Pittsburgh Panthers (7-2) are set to clash on Saturday, November 16, 2024, in a highly anticipated ACC showdown . Both teams are coming off recent victories and are looking to solidify their positions in the conference title race .
Team Statistics
Clemson Tigers:
- Total Offense: 474 yards/game (2nd in ACC)
- Passing Offense: 291.8 yards/game (3rd in ACC)
- Rushing Offense: 198.7 yards/game (6th in ACC)
- Points Per Game: 37.7 (2nd in ACC)
- Points Allowed Per Game: 23.1 (3rd in ACC)
Pittsburgh Panthers:
- Total Offense: 241.9 yards/game (5th in ACC)
- Passing Offense: 272.6 yards/game (4th in ACC)
- Rushing Offense: 150.7 yards/game (8th in ACC)
- Points Per Game: 25.1 (5th in ACC)
- Points Allowed Per Game: 36.7 (2nd in ACC)
Key Players
Clemson:
- Cade Klubnik: 2,275 passing yards, 24 TDs, 4 INTs
- Phil Mafah: 981 rushing yards, 8 TDs
- Antonio Williams: 466 receiving yards, 6 TDs
Pittsburgh:
- Eli Holstein: 2,177 passing yards, 17 TDs, 6 INTs
- Desmond Reid: 670 rushing yards, 4 TDs
- Konata Mumpfield: 560 receiving yards, 3 TDs
Offensive and Defensive Matchup
Clemson’s offense, led by Cade Klubnik, has been impressive this season, especially with the play-action passing game . However, they have faced some struggles recently, completing just 54.4% of their throws in November . Pittsburgh’s defense, ranked 18th in EPA/rush and third in sacks per game, will be a true test for Klubnik and the Tigers’ run game .
On the other side, Pittsburgh’s offense has been inconsistent, with Eli Holstein facing a game-time decision due to a head injury . Backup Nate Yarnell would have to step up against Clemson’s defense, which ranks eighth in the nation in third-down success .
Special Teams
Clemson’s kicker, Ben Sauls, has been reliable, scoring 81 points this season . Pittsburgh’s special teams have also been solid, but they will need to be at their best to keep up with Clemson’s high-powered offense.
Quotes from Players, Coaches, and Analysts
Clemson Coach Dabo Swinney: “We’ve had some ups and downs, but we’re focused on finishing strong and making a run for the conference title.”
Pittsburgh Coach Pat Narduzzi: “Our defense has been our strength, and we’ll need to bring our A-game to contain Clemson’s offense.”
Saturday’s matchup between Clemson and Pittsburgh promises to be a thrilling battle, with both teams vying for a crucial win in the ACC race. The game will likely be decided by which team can impose their will on defense and capitalize on offensive opportunities.
