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 quarterback J.T. Barrett (16) fires a pass upfield in the first quarter against the Michigan Wolverines at Ohio Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Greg Bartram-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Make J.T. Barrett throw

We touched on how J.T. Barrett needs to be forced into becoming the focal part of the Ohio State offense. This holds true as one of the biggest keys toward Clemson winning the Fiesta Bowl.

Barrett is not an inept passer by any means, and actually controlled the ball very well during the 2016 season with just five interceptions (also had 24 touchdowns). However, he’s not one to consistently launch passes down the field to open up the offense. The running backs are mostly asked to do this, especially all-purpose star Curtis Samuel.

If Clemson goes up by multiple scores, that may force the junior quarterback into a shootout, which would benefit the Tigers who possess Deshaun Watson. He can beat Ohio State with his arm, but Barrett isn’t close to as sure of a bet to do the same on Saturday night.

If Barrett can beat the Tigers with his arm, then this would be a standout performance from the entire Ohio State offense. More confidence should be in Clemson’s ability to go up early and force the Buckeyes into passing situations, though. Can the front seven then do enough to make Barrett uncomfortable in the pocket?

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