GAME BREAKDOWN
KEY MATCHUP: The success of Clemson’s running game against Florida State’s defensive front will go a long way toward determining the outcome. Clemson ranks among the national leaders in rushing, ranking 10th nationally at 253.7 yards per game; the Seminoles are sixth in the country against the run, limiting opponents to 100.4 yards per game, so something’s got to give. Clemson’s objective may be to attack Florida State with steady diet of fresh linemen as well as running backs. The Tigers have nine dependable offensive linemen, most of whom are cross-trained to play multiple positions, and the second-team line has come on to produce strategic scores in each of the last three games. Clemson also is blessed with multiple running backs capable of breaking a big gain at any moment. While Travis Etienne leads the way, backups Tavien Feaster and Lyn-J Dixon both have touchdown runs of 50 yards or more this season and a fourth, Adam Choice, is averaging 7.5 yards per carry.
DRAFT SLANT
–DE Clelin Ferrell continues to shine. He had five tackles, including 2 1/2 tackles for loss in last week’s win over N.C. State, pushing his season total to a team-best 10.5 tackles for loss. He has a quick first step and NFL scouts love his size (6-4, 265) and motor.
ROSTER REPORT:
–DE K.J. Henry may be redshirted; he has played in four games this season, but barring injury will take a redshirt season.
=========
