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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Nov 26, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes running back Curtis Samuel (4) celebrates after scoring the game winning touchdown against the Michigan Wolverines in the second overtime at Ohio Stadium. Ohio State won the game 30-27 in double overtime.Mandatory Credit: Greg Bartram-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Keep the OSU running backs in check

Ohio State’s running backs, Mike Weber and Curtis Samuel, pose threats to the Clemson defense, especially given that the Buckeyes are a run-oriented team. These two have also arguably been the team’s best players on offense. Despite the passing game not being the best in the country, the legs of these two star players has been plenty for the opposition to handle over the season.

Along with Weber and Samuel, there’s quarterback J.T. Barrett, who was second on the team in rushing with over 800 yards. So, the Tigers have three players to worry about out of the backfield. It will be a lot for the defense, but they have the ability to at least get to the backfield with a little over 3.4 sacks per game. Granted, that’s for getting to the quarterback, but it should help with stuffing the run up front if they can contain the power of Weber and quickness of Samuel.

Stopping the running game means making Barrett throw more often than Ohio State probably wants. If they somehow become a passing team during this game, then that will play into Clemson’s favor. Pitting Barrett and Deshaun Watson head to head likely puts the latter as the favorite, which could spell a victory.

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