Bold Prediction No. 5: Justin Fields will get things going on the ground
The Prediction:
The days of Justin Fields sitting back in the pocket and trying to force too much against a quality defense will change the coaches’ gameplan in this one. We’ve seen the Ohio State quarterback hold the ball too long at times when he could have taken off in open running lanes.
Because of that, and because the Clemson defense somewhat dictates the need for an added dimension in the running game, look for Fields to get more designed running calls in this game. It’s one area of his game that isn’t taken advantage of as much as others, and we’re calling for at least ten designed runs that are a part of things in this one.
How we did:
Almost. Fields ran the ball eight times, though not all of it was by design. Early on though, he was looking to gain some yards on the ground more than normal and it was working. Getting trucked by the crown of James Skalski’s helmet in the ribs changed all of that though. For the record, we were going to be right. We think. Look for this to resurface against Alabama if Fields is healthy enough.
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