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 Music City Bowl Clemson vs. Kentucky
Sunday, December 27, 2009 8:30 PM ET ESPN
In a word: C.J. Spiller. Ok, two words...or a name whatever. Spiller will be the difference maker, as he so often is, in this matchup. Spiller is a threat through the air, on the ground and in the return game. Basically, the Wildcats defense is as likely to succeed in stopping Spiller as this new Taco Bell Drive Thru Diet is likely to shed pounds...and as much of a joke at that. Look for the Clemson playmakers (Spiller and Jacoby Ford) to get it done.
The Kentucky pass defense has been solid this season. They let up less than 200 yards per game and have picked off 16 passes this year. The trouble with the Kentucky defense has been their ability slow down their opponent's rushing game. The Wildcats are ranked 100th in the nation in stopping the run, letting up 183 yards per game. Look for Spiller to put on a clinic as he knifes his way through the blue shirts, or white...whatever they're wearing.
On offense, the Wildcats' woes come in the passing game. Kentucky averages 193 yards per game on the ground, but less than 150 yards through the air. The Wildcats have not had a quarterback surpass 1,000 yards passing.
Kentucky's success on offense will hinge upon their ability to rush the ball against a mediocre-at-best Clemson rushing defense. The Tigers are great at stopping the passing game, so don't expect Kentucky to even try to move the ball through the air.
 Expect heavy doses of Spiller and Kentucky running back Derrick Locke. Kentucky wide receiver Randall Cobb, in addition to leading the team in receptions, has also enjoyed his share of carries this season and leads the team with 10 rushing touchdowns.
On defense you'll want to keep your eyes on Kentucky linebackers Sam Maxwell and Micah Johnson. Clemson safety DeAndre McDaniel has picked off 8 passes this season, second most in the FBS. He's also added 85 tackles and 2 sacks for good measure and returned one of his picks for a touchdown. Freshman safety Rashard Hall has added 6 interceptions. Clemson defensive end Ricky Sapp will look to make some noise in the Kentucky backfield.
It's also worth noting that Clemson freshman quarterback Kyle Parker may be playing in his final game as a Tiger. Parker is also a talented outfielder for the Tigers baseball team and is expected to be drafted in the MLB First-Year Player Draft in June. It's widely believed he will ultimately choose baseball over football. - Danny Hobrock
Danny is a sports journalist who primarily covers college football and professional baseball. He is a contributor for several sports related blogs and is the former editor of a political and current events website.
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