Rivalry weekend is upon us beginning at noon as teams will look to beat their most hated rival. Brandon Stockdale has his picks for some of the biggest ones today. Let’s get started.
South Carolina vs. No. 2 Clemson
Clemson is looking for their fifth straight win over South Carolina tonight in Death Valley. The Tigers haven’t played great on offense in the last two weeks, but you can expect them to come out and play inspired football. South Carolina runs through quarterback Jake Bentley, who has thrown for 16 touchdowns this season. Wide receiver Bryan Edwards, leads Gamecock receivers with 42 receptions and six touchdowns. If South Carolina is going to have a chance, the trio will need a big game against a ferocious Clemson defense. In the end, the talent in orange is too much.
Clemson 45 South Carolina 7
No. 4 Michigan vs. No. 10 Ohio State
Ohio State is an underdog against the Wolverines, even though they’ve they’ve beaten every year since 2011. The Buckeyes are an underdog in large part because of their defense, which has been atrocious over the last few weeks. They will need a better performance against a Michigan offense that is putting up 426 yards per game. The deciding question in this game could be can Ohio State produce enough in the pass game against an aggressive Michigan defense? This one has the makings of an instant classic, even though it will be played in the cold and rain in Columbus.
Ohio State 45 Michigan 42
No. 1 Alabama vs. Auburn
Auburn has stumbled to a seven win season after many thought they could compete with Alabama for the SEC West. Bama and Georgia will meet next Saturday in the SEC Championship. The Tigers can still earn bragging rights with a win over the Crimson Tide today in Tuscaloosa, a first for Auburn since 2010. Alabama’s defense is still dominant and the only team that has been able to slow down Alabama on offense for at least a half was The Citadel. This one could get ugly.
Alabama 38 Auburn 13
No. 3 Notre Dame vs. USC
Notre Dame is one win away from making the College Football Playoff, and they’ll have a chance to do it against Southern Cal, who is looking to make a bowl game. Notre Dame has been riding high since turning to quarterback Ian Book as the starter. The Fighting Irish are putting up 454 yards per game while the Trojans are allowing 379 yards per game. Look for Notre Dame to put up points early and often in what should be a coast to the Playoff.
Notre Dame 34 USC 10
