Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Miami faces ACC’s toughest task
Feed playmakers, strike early: Let’s face it. Getting behind early against Clemson is the kiss of death. The Hurricanes know that all too well since they’ve been outscored 96-3 in the last two outings against the Tigers.
So, to avoid a similar fate this time around, it’s imperative that Miami feed its playmakers such as Cam’Ron Harris and Brevin Jordan, and put some early points on the scoreboard. Quarterback D’Eriq King has been impressive in sparking the Canes’ offense and has yet to commit a turnover, which is a trend that needs to continue.
Overcoming the idle jinx: Off weeks were a disaster for Miami a year ago. Three times following an idle week the Hurricanes suffered losses — 28-25 against North Carolina, 42-35 against Virginia Tech and a humbling 30-24 setback against Florida International.
Now, after a hot start in which Miami seemed to find its identity on offense with King running the show, does a week off hurt or help?
Keys for Clemson
Get to King with pass rush: The Tigers’ offense gets a lot of hype and it’s well deserved. But Clemson’s pass rush has played a key role in dispatching Wake Forest, The Citadel and Virginia to start the 2020 season.
Eleven different Tigers have contributed to 13 sacks in the first three games, led by freshman end Myles Murphy. Murphy made his college debut with a seven-tackle, two-sack performance in the opener against Wake Forest.
Turn Travis loose: Clemson’s senior running back Travis Etienne is the most exciting running back in college football. Etienne has averaged 13 carries in the Tigers’ first three games this season. Expect that number to increase significantly against Miami.
Prediction
Clemson 48, Miami 26: The ‘U’ might be back in many ways, but not enough to outplay the Tigers for four quarters.
Clemson’s one-two offensive punch of Etienne and quarterback Trevor Lawrence are an NFL general manager’s dream and college foe’s nightmare. They practically ensure the Tigers will put at least 30 points on the board every game.
Miami’s offense has been impressive in the early going. But the Canes will be facing a whole different level of athlete on defense against Clemson.