Clemson +14 -120 buy ½ point
Texas is the better team, they are expected to dominate. The only team they had troubles with this year was Georgia, and Georgia dominated Clemson in the opener. However, Clemson is playing with house money here, and I could see Texas taking their foot off late to save it for the next round. I also think Clemson has the better QB here, and while it’s not the “Clemson” defense we have been used to, but they are extremely opportunistic, ranking 10th in highest % of turnovers forced per defensive possession, while Texas is 109th on offense. I could not feel comfortable backing Texas given that. Also Clemson’s biggest weakness is in run defense, but Texas is 103rd in rushing success rate. Clemson also has the best pass rusher in TJ Parker who could give TExas OL troubles, much like Jalon Walker for Georgia. Texas also has had issues in the red zone in big games going 2-6 vs. Oklahoma, 2-6 in two games vs. Georgia, and 2-5 vs. Texas AM. Dabo is 20-12 ATS as a dog as well.
