Clemson kicks off its 2024 season in a highly anticipated matchup against the defending national champions, the Georgia Bulldogs, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. This game, set for August 31, will be featured on ABC’s national broadcast and promises to be one of the marquee contests of the opening weekend in college football, pitting two top-ranked teams and historic programs against each other.
Key Matchups and Statistics
Clemson Offense vs. Georgia Defense
Clemson’s offense, which averaged 26.8 points per game last season (ranked 59th), will face a stout Georgia defense that allowed only 16.3 points per game (ranked 7th). The Tigers will need to improve their efficiency, particularly on third downs where they converted 39.46% of the time (ranked 56th). Georgia's defense, however, excelled in limiting opponents on third down, allowing conversions at a mere 26.71% rate (ranked 3rd). Clemson's ability to sustain drives will be critical in this matchup.
Georgia Offense vs. Clemson Defense
On the other side, Georgia's offense is a powerhouse, averaging 39.5 points per game last season (ranked 5th). Their balance in both the run and pass games, with 491.6 total yards per game (ranked 6th), will test a Clemson defense that allowed just 305.8 yards per game (ranked 11th). Georgia’s ability to convert on third downs (55.56%, ranked 1st) and score in the red zone (89.71%, ranked 23rd) could prove too much for Clemson if the Tigers cannot create turnovers, a category where they excelled last year with a +0.6 turnover margin per game (ranked 18th).
Running Game Battle
Clemson's run-heavy offense, which ran the ball 51.39% of the time, will go against a Georgia defense that was solid against the run, allowing just 112.2 rushing yards per game (ranked 16th). Conversely, Georgia’s potent ground game, averaging 193.6 yards per game (ranked 17th), will challenge Clemson's defensive front, which allowed 123.2 rushing yards per game (ranked 27th).
Passing Efficiency
The passing game will be crucial for both teams. Georgia's quarterback play was elite last season, with a 72.42% completion rate (ranked 2nd) and 9.3 yards per attempt (ranked 9th). Clemson's secondary, which allowed just 5.7 yards per pass attempt (ranked 5th), will need to be at its best to keep Georgia’s explosive receivers in check. On the flip side, Clemson’s passing attack was less efficient, with only 6.0 yards per pass attempt (ranked 121st), which could struggle against Georgia's tight secondary.
Prediction
Zach: Clemson enters this matchup with the hope of upsetting the defending national champions, but Georgia’s depth, especially on the offensive and defensive lines, might be too much to overcome. The Bulldogs' ability to control the game on the ground and create explosive plays through the air gives them a significant edge. While Clemson's defense should keep the game close, particularly if they can generate turnovers, Georgia’s balance and efficiency on both sides of the ball make them the favorites.
Prediction: Georgia 31, Clemson 20
Evan: Clemson opens the season with the toughest game on their schedule, while it will be a great opening test to see where the Tigers line up against other great teams, Georgia's loaded roster might be too much for Clemson to overcome. If Clemson is going to come away with a win they will need to get early and consistent pressure on QB Carson Beck, and stuff that Georgia run game. However, I think that Georgia's defense and particularly their secondary will make it a tough day for Clemson's passing game.
Prediction: Georgia 24, Clemson 13
Cole: The Clemson Tigers open the gates Saturday against the Georgia Bulldogs in their season opener in Atlanta Georgia. Clemson will need to get some early momentum from its offense to give them a good shot at beating the number 1 dogs. With Clemson's defense being highly ranked year in and year out they will give Georgia's offense and Carson beck a good look early. If Clemson can force some 3 and outs on Georgia's offense and score consistently the Tigers have a fair shot. Im gonna wear the orange shades on this one.
Prediction: Georgia 24, Clemson 27
Jeremy: As the Tigers travel to A-Town this Saturday, I foresee a playoff-caliber showdown that will be tighter than many expect. While Clemson has faced challenges, particularly in rebuilding key positions, their defense is set to stun Georgia’s run game, pushing Carson Beck to lean on his passing. With Clemson’s talented freshman wide receivers, Phil Mafah’s powerful running, and the second year under Garrett Riley’s dynamic offense, the Tigers are well-equipped to move the ball against Georgia. In the end, this game could come down to turnovers, making every possession crucial. As freshman kicker Nolan Hauser nails the game-winning field goal, the Dawgs will put on their bark collars and head home.
Prediction: Georgia 17, Clemson 20
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