In the unpredictable realm of college football, one constant has emerged for ACC teams facing off against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets under the leadership of Brent Key. The perilous territory of being a double-digit favorite, especially on home turf, has proven to be a daunting challenge since Key's tenure began. Road underdog victories against formidable opponents like Pitt, North Carolina, Miami, Wake Forest, and Virginia have marked Key's success, setting the stage for a potential upset against Clemson, a feat not accomplished since 2014.
As the Tigers gear up to host the Yellow Jackets at Memorial Stadium, the odds stand at 14.5 or 15 points in favor of Clemson according to various sportsbooks. Georgia Tech, however, has thrived in the role of a road underdog, evident in their recent two-game winning streak, including an impressive 45-17 triumph against Virginia.
The Tigers, coming off a monumental 31-23 victory over Notre Dame, carry the weight of being 14-point favorites into the upcoming clash. Their defense, a formidable force with 20 sacks and 15 takeaways this season, seeks to maintain its dominance. Running back Phil Mafah's stellar performance, amassing 186 yards and two touchdowns, adds to the Tigers' confidence. The potential return of Will Shipley further bolsters Clemson's offensive arsenal.
On the other side of the field, the Yellow Jackets present a formidable challenge. With back-to-back wins and a showcase of offensive prowess, including a 514-yard performance against Virginia, Georgia Tech has demonstrated its ability to compete against strong opponents. Beating two ranked teams in the past four weeks, including a 46-42 victory against then-No. 17 North Carolina, adds a layer of unpredictability to this matchup.
Injury concerns surround Clemson, with Coach Dabo Swinney providing updates on key players. Notably, running back Will Shipley's potential return adds a dynamic element to the Tigers' game plan. Shipley's versatility, with 515 rushing yards, three touchdowns, and 120 receiving yards this season, has been a crucial factor in Clemson's success.
Swinney emphasizes the significance of Shipley's impact, challenging those with "amnesia" to recall the standout performances that define Shipley's contributions. The running back's potential return injects renewed vigor into Clemson's offensive strategies.
As the stage is set for a high-stakes clash at Memorial Stadium, both teams bring their strengths and uncertainties to the forefront. Georgia Tech's recent successes as a road underdog and Clemson's determination to secure a spot in the ACC hierarchy create an atmosphere of anticipation. The outcome of this showdown remains uncertain, and college football fans brace themselves for the possibility of another upset in the turbulent world of ACC football.
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