Clemson vs. Pittsburgh Week 8 Picks: Is Clemson's Dynasty Over?

Sportsbook Review

Last Updated: October 21, 2021 1:21 PM EDT • 1 min 63 sec read. Twitter link Google News Link

KNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE - SEPTEMBER 11: Kenny Pickett #8 of the Pittsburg Panthers celebrates after a touchdown against the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium on September 11, 2021 in Knoxville, Tennessee. Andy Lyons/Getty Images/AFP (Photo by ANDY LYONS / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP)

Despite Clemson starting the season 4-2, college football fans are up in arms. Clemson was viewed as a dynasty, but the Tigers have struggled to find offensive consistency. Can Pittsburgh outscore mighty Clemson?

The Clemson Tigers are coming off two straight one-score victories after beating Boston College and Syracuse. Those teams are viewed as being in the bottom tier of the ACC, and Clemson still struggled to win.

Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Panthers field one of the nation's best offenses, averaging 48.3 points per game this season with senior quarterback Kenny Pickett leading the way while throwing 21 touchdown passes. The Panthers' dominance against Virginia Tech last week earned them a spot in the AP Top 25.

But can Pittsburgh stay ranked against Clemson at home?

Here are my picks and predictions for the college football Week 8 matchup between the Clemson Tigers and the Pittsburgh Panthers (Odds via DraftKings).

Clemson vs. Pittsburgh Game Info

Date/Time: Saturday, October 23, 3:30 p.m. ETTV: ESPNLocation: Heinz Field, Pittsburgh, PAWeather: 53 degrees with wind nearing 7 mph

Clemson vs. Pittsburgh Odds Analysis

Clemson opened as a half-point favorite, but the Tigers have been bet down to a 3-point underdog. After two nerve-wracking wins, bettors have seen enough of Clemson.

Meanwhile, the total has shifted from an opening of 47.5 to 48. If you shop around, the total is still 47.5 at some spots.

Clemson vs. Pittsburgh Betting Picks

Clemson +145Under 48.5

Clemson vs. Pittsburgh Betting Predictions

Clemson +145

It’s been an ugly season for Clemson. Despite being 4-2, the school's offense is averaging under 21 points per game this season while only gaining 322.3 yards per contest. However, Clemson's defense keeps it in games while allowing just 12.5 points per outing.

Clemson's defense isn’t really getting the credit it deserves while the team struggles overall. The unit is holding opposing teams to just 201.7 passing yards per game, and the defense is also giving up fewer yards per game than what the offense is producing.

The Tigers aren't a powerhouse anymore, but they’ll stick around and find ways to win.

Meanwhile, Pittsburgh is averaging 533.5 yards per contest offensively. It seems like Pittsburgh's offense should dominate this game, but Clemson's defense boasts one of the country's best secondaries. The better defense in this matchup could force Pickett into some tough throws.

Clemson has run the ball effectively, and if the Tigers can keep their defense off the field and well-rested, the unit should be prepared and ready to cause problems for Pittsburgh.

Under 48.5

If Pittsburgh were to put up the team's average amount of points per game, the Panthers will nearly hit the over without Clemson needing to score.

However, Clemson's defense has been absolutely dominant in coverage this year. Pittsburgh averages 358 passing yards per game, a mark that won't be reached against Clemson.

The Tigers are still fighting for an ACC title. They’ve lost to Georgia, and to North Carolina State in double overtime. Clemson has stuck around in every game, despite not looking great.

As long as Clemson's defense shows up, this game is going to be a bloodbath and a defensive showcase.

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