Around the ACC: Bowl Previews

Nov 29, 2014; Clemson, SC, USA; Clemson Tigers wide receiver Artavis Scott (3) carries the ball during the second half against the South Carolina Gamecocks at Clemson Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports

Russell Athletic Bowl – December 29th – 5:30 PM – ESPN

Oklahoma Sooners (8-4) vs. #17 Clemson Tigers (9-3)

Breakdown – The Oklahoma Sooners stumble into the post-season after a very disappointing regular season in which the Sooners were expected to be playoff contenders. The Clemson Tigers enter the post-season full of momentum, winning eight of it’s final nine games including a 35-17 rout of rival South Carolina. The Tigers will be without true freshman QB Deshaun Watson for this one, as he recovers from ACL surgery.

Players to watch – True freshman running back Samaje Perine, who accounted for 200+ rushing yards on three occasions, including an FBS-record 427 yards against Kansas is the player to watch for Oklahoma. Clemson true freshman wide receiver Artavis Scott, is the player to watch for the Tigers. The true freshman has continued Clemson’s recent tradition of play-making wide receivers this year.

Prediction –  Due to Clemson being without Deshaun Watson, I expect it’s defense to rise to the occasion and help senior back-up QB Cole Stoudt leave Clemson with a victory. Clemson 21, Oklahoma 14