Ohio State vs. Clemson College Football Playoff semifinal preview and prediction

Ohio State will take on Clemson in the Sugar Bowl semifinal of the College Football Playoff. Here is a preview and prediction for the game.

The prediction

Nobody… and I mean nobody seems to be giving Ohio State much of a chance in this game. The experts all say last year’s team was the one and they missed the opportunity. Six games haven’t been enough to prove they belong. And the list goes on.

It is interesting that so many believe that this game won’t even be close. Talent-wise, Ohio State compares favorably to Clemson. But the Buckeyes haven’t shown it on the field, and admittedly, Clemson has looked more the part.

However, in my lifetime, Ohio State has always played better when doubted. When the talking heads tell the Buckeyes all the reasons why they don’t belong, they seem to show up the biggest. It was the same story in 2002 against an unbeatable Miami team. And it was the same story again in 2014/2015 when Ohio State had zero chance against both Alabama and Oregon. Remember?

This game will come down to who can control the trenches and I believe Ohio State has better lines on both sides of the ball. It’s going to be a dog fight in a momentum-swinging, back and forth game.

The Buckeyes have heard all the naysayers. They know Dabo voted them No. 11 in the nation. This team has something to prove, and I believe they’ll find a way to come out on top in the end.

Final Score

Ohio State 34, Clemson 31

Line

Clemson – 7.5 (Odds courtesy of BetMGM Sportsbook.)

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Ohio State’s bowl history over the past 20 years

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