Clemson Keys to Victory Over Virginia Tech

In just under two hours the Tigers will take on the Hokies from Virginia Tech (5-2, 2-2) in what has become a "must win" game for both teams. Clemson (7-1, 4-1) must win to keep BCS bowl appearance and ACC Title hopes alive while Virginia Tech must win if they have any intention of backing their way into the top spot in the ACC Coastal Division.

So what do the Tigers have to do tonight to ensure victory over the Hokies?

1. Run, baby, run! I said it last week, and I'll say it again this week. The Tigers must run the ball effectively if they expect to win. Virginia Tech is 22nd in the nation at stopping the run allowing just under 100 yards-per-game. Of course, Georgia Tech was in the Top 10 in rushing defenses last week before the Tigers hit them up for 300+ on the ground--they're now 32nd. James Davis and C.J. Spiller came to Clemson to run the ball. I say we give it to them and drop Va Tech from the Top 30 in rushing defenses. Run. Run. Run.

2. Force turnovers. Virginia Tech has lost two games this season--once to Georgia Tech and once to Boston College. In both games Va Tech turned the ball over via fumble twice. Add to that two interceptions in the BC game. Turnovers have cost the Hokies this season, and the Tigers should look to make that price even higher tonight. If Tech goes minus-two in the turnover category--then the Tigers will win.

3. Prevent Va Tech from scoring while their offense is on the bench. Frank Beamer's teams are 58-8 when the special teams and/or defense puts the ball in the end zone. That stat is unreal. Tonight the Tigers have to prevent that "Beamer Ball" from taking shape. Clemson will need solid punt and field goal protection, and Proctor has to avoid the interception--especially to a DB with an open field in front of him. If Clemson can manage success against "Beamer Ball", then expect a victory for the Tigers.

So there ya have it. It's going to be cold and cloudy in Blacksburg tonight, and look for the weather to slow the Tigers up early on. But I expect a Clemson victory tonight.

Final score? In a close one ... Clemson 27, Va Tech 21.