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Clemson Football Podcast: ACC Championship Preview

The ACC Championship Preview Pawcast is live, and our hosts break down the matchup and keys to a Tigers victory.

By nhtully
Tyler Smith/Getty Images

In the Clemson Tigers' 3rd ACC title game appearance (1-1, last championship 2011), they'll face a North Carolina Tar Heels team (first appearance) on an 11-game winning streak.

The last time UNC played at BofA Stadium, QB Marquise Williams did his best reformed Grinch impression, handing out red zone picks to Gamecocks like they were toys down in Whoville.

Since, they've found an identity running the ball and punishing undisciplined opposing secondaries. Larry Fedora's squad has learned how to win big (Duke/Miami) and win ugly (Virginia Tech). They've posted similar results to Clemson against common opponents, and were up to the task in key Coastal match-ups vs. Duke and Pitt.

Having improved down the stretch, Williams may be the 2nd best QB we've faced (depending on your opinion of DeShone Kizer), and he'll bring a stable of receiver talent to challenge our secondary.

As I sat out this show, I'll prognosticate here. Though fun, the Dr Pepper halftime contest won't be the highlight. Our offense is gonna eat. Look for Deshaun Watson to put the finishing touches on an impressive season resume, which should seal his Heisman front-runner status behind an inspiring performance from our O-line. My big key to our 13th win is our D containing the run (Hood+Williams alike) among our front. Failing that, we're going to need to force turnovers or get flawless RZ efficiency both ways. Prediction: Tigers 30 - Tar Heels 28.

Enjoy the show!

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