College Football Playoff 2016: 5 keys to victory for Clemson in Fiesta Bowl

Dec 3, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) throws the ball in the second half against the Virginia Tech Hokies during the ACC Championship college football game at Camping World Stadium. Clemson Tigers won 42-35. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports /

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Dec 3, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers running back Wayne Gallman (9) runs with the ball against the Virginia Tech Hokies during the first quarter of the ACC Championship college football game at Camping World Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Run, Clemson, run

The Clemson passing game is already there with Deshaun Watson, but the running game must be established as well for a chance at beating Ohio State. While there is the ability to outgun the Buckeyes and quarterback J.T. Barrett, a successful offense needs to be balanced. That starts with Watson using his legs and running back Wayne Gallman getting going as well.

Gallman eclipsed 1,000 rushing yards in his final game of the season. It wasn’t his strongest performance (17 rushes for 59 yards) and the fourth time he failed to average four yards per attempt this year. That makes it even more important for Clemson to get the Loganville, GA native some momentum early on. That way Dabo Swinney and Co. can establish the run game to make it a threat and not just have the Ohio State defense settle in on Watson.

It should be noted that OSU is ranked 115^th in the nation with 1,414 rushing yards allowed, so there is a possibility that Gellman could have a productive day. They did hold up well against Michigan, though, with just 91 yards allowed on 43 carries. Will the momentum continue against Gallman and Clemson at the Fiesta Bowl?

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