NCAA Football
2012-09-08 - Ball State Cardinals at Clemson Tigers
A Sports Betting Pick by FirstDown
United States: College Football
Saturday 8 September 2012 - Kick Off 12pm ET
5pm (British Time)
Preview
The Clemson Tigers (1-0) were blitzed in the Bowl Game last season by West Virginia, but they erased those memories with an important win over the Auburn Tigers last week and now they will look to remain unbeaten before the big ACC match up with Florida State. They face the Ball State Cardinals (1-0) who enjoyed a win over Eastern Michigan to open their season.
Sammy Watkins was suspended for the opener for Clemson and will also miss this game, but that didn't slow down the Offense that rolled for over 500 yards last week. They dominated on the ground with 320 yards and that does not bode well for Ball State who allowed 5.5 yards per carry last week.
DeAndre Hopkins took over the mantle left by Watkins last week and he should have another big game this week even if Clemson don't need to throw the ball so much. The Cardinals gave up almost 300 yards per game through the air last season and have only 5 returning starters on that side of the ball this season so you have to expect Clemson will be able to move the chains whichever way they like.
Clemson's Defense did not play so well last week as Auburn gave up 374 yards, but they do create turnovers and are not facing an Offense like the SEC's Auburn this week. Ball State did run the ball very effectively last week against Eastern Michigan, but you have to think it will be tougher this week against the Tigers who at least kept Auburn to 4.9 yards per carry.
That means there will be more pressure on Keith Wenning to do more than just manage the game from Quarter Back and he will be going against a Defense that does look to create turnovers. The Offensive Line will also be tested after giving up just 11 sacks last year, but facing a very good pass rushing team in Clemson.
Head to Head
Clemson have won their two home games against Ball State, although they are 0-2 against the spread in those games.
Both of those games took place here in Clemson.
Other Interesting Trends
Clemson are 5-2 against the spread in their last 7 games at home.
Ball State are 15-7 against the spread in their last 22 games against non-Conference schools.
They are 31-11 against the spread in their last 42 games on the road.
Prediction
I am going to back the Clemson Tigers to win their home opener and cover the spread for the following reasons:
First, Clemson have a powerful Offense that is capable of putting up big points very quickly, a huge bonus when it comes to trying to clear big spreads.
Second, Ball State have generally struggled in their first real road game, going 3-18 and losing those games by an average of 24 points per game.
Third, the Tigers have won their last 8 opening home games by 20 points per game and they look capable of getting more points against an opponent from the MAC.
The Pick :
Clemson Tigers 48-17 Ball State Cardinals
