ESPN analyst makes prediction for Clemson’s primetime matchup vs. Miami

· Yahoo Sports

Greg McElroy isn’t picking Clemson to extend its winning streak Saturday night.

The ESPN analyst predicted a 34-13 loss for the Tigers against No. 4 Miami during his Always College Football preview. Clemson has won three straight, but McElroy expects the Hurricanes’ ground game to present a problem.

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“The biggest mismatch right now — probably Miami’s rushing attack against Clemson’s rushing defense,” McElroy said.

While Clemson hasn’t allowed a run of at least 20 yards this season, opponents are averaging 4.5 yards per carry. McElroy believes Miami can exploit that vulnerability without relying on explosive plays.

On offense, the Tigers need their own rushing success to carry over after gaining 255 yards at Cal. Another productive night from Gideon Davidson would help freshman quarterback Tait Reynolds, who faces his toughest assignment since becoming the starter.

McElroy stressed that Reynolds cannot afford to take too long to get comfortable.

“He’s going to have to settle down faster,” McElroy said. “Because this group he’s playing against is the real deal.”

An upset remains possible in McElroy’s view, particularly if Clemson capitalizes on turnovers or gets another spark from special teams.

“If Miami makes some mistakes, then Clemson can absolutely win the game,” he said.

Still, he expects Miami’s efficiency to prevail. Both teams enter unbeaten in ACC play ahead of Saturday’s 7:30 p.m. ET kickoff on ABC.

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This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: ESPN analyst makes prediction for Clemson’s primetime matchup vs. Miami

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