Clemson vs NC State: Key Matchup Breakdown 2024
Clemson vs NC State: Key Matchup Breakdown
Clemson: A New Challenge for NC State
Oddsmakers massively favour the No. 21 Clemson Tigers (1-1) when they host the NC State Wolfpack (2-1) on Saturday, September 21, 2024 in a matchup between ACC opponents at Memorial Stadium (Clemson, SC). Clemson is favoured by 18.5 points. The over/under is 44.
In Week 4 of the 2024 college football season, Clemson faced NC State in a high-stakes ACC battle at Death Valley. The Wolfpack entered the game with a 2-1 record and started true freshman CJ Bailey at quarterback after their regular starter, Grayson McCall, sustained an injury. Bailey’s ability to handle the pressure was a major storyline, as this was his first road start in an ACC matchup. Head coach Dave Doeren and teammates expressed confidence in his leadership, although the Wolfpack’s performance this season has been inconsistent(
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Clemson’s Momentum
The Clemson Tigers, ranked 21st, bounced back from a season-opening loss against Georgia by routing Appalachian State in their second game. Cade Klubnik, Clemson’s starting quarterback, made a strong case for leading the Tigers this season. In this game, he opened with a 55-yard rushing touchdown, setting the tone early for Clemson. Despite losing some key players, including defensive end Peter Woods and slot receiver Tyler Brown to injuries, Clemson came into the game as heavy favorites(
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First Quarter Dominance
Clemson wasted no time, as Klubnik’s early touchdown gave the Tigers a quick 7-0 lead. The Wolfpack defence struggled to contain Clemson’s high-powered offence, and with Bailey at the helm, NC State’s offence struggled to find a rhythm against Clemson’s formidable defence(
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NC State’s Struggles on Both Sides
NC State’s defence, traditionally a strength, appeared vulnerable throughout the season. They had given up significant points in their previous games, notably 51 in a blowout loss to Tennessee. Their offence, now led by the freshman Bailey, faced immense pressure from Clemson’s defence. Despite winning their previous game against Louisiana Tech, NC State needed a strong performance on both sides to keep the game competitive(
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Prediction & Conclusion
Clemson was heavily favoured to win by a wide margin, with an early prediction suggesting they would dominate the first half. The Tigers were expected to build an early lead, leveraging their offensive and defensive strengths. NC State, relying on a freshman quarterback and dealing with injuries, faced a steep uphill battle(
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With Clemson’s home-field advantage and explosive offence, the odds favoured the Tigers extending their dominance in the ACC with another win over the Wolfpack.
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