Clemson vs. NC State football preview, prediction
Clemson's secondary played poorly last weekend. Sam Hartman threw a school record 6 TD passes. Sheridan Jones, Malcolm Greene and Andrew Mukuba were out. Clemson allowed 300 air yards for the second straight game.
NC State quarterback Devin Leary has 9 touchdowns and 2 picks this season. He scored 35 times last season and threw just 5 picks.
DJ Uiagalelei is improving his game and the Clemson offense is too. DJ had 371 yards and 5 TD passes against Wake. NC State is allowing the ACC's fewest air yards per attempt (4.9). Clemson's receivers are making more than 12 ypc so far.
Clemson is 137-5 when leading after 3 quarters under Dabo Swinney and 12-27 when trailing. NC State is 8th in FBS allowing 11.8 points per game and 6th with 94.7 pass efficiency defense rating. Clemson is 20th nationally with 43. 8 points and 43rd with 275 passing yards pergame.
Clemson's front seven should gain the advantage at the line. The Pack had issues in pass protection against East Carolina. Both teams could struggle moving the ball on the ground. Clemson's air game has developed to the point where Uiagalelei should be able to create some passing alleys in the deeper portion of the field.
