Greg McElroy previews, predicts Palmetto Bowl winner

Greg McElroy is one of many who will be watching the Rivalry Week matchup between No. 15 South Carolina and no. 12 Clemson, perhaps better known simply as the Palmetto Bowl.

It could be close, with Clemson favored by 2.5 points at home (via DraftKings). This is the first time the two teams have faced each other in an AP-ranked matchup since 2013.

The offensive line could be an issue for Clemson due to injury issues, and quarterback Cade Klubnik’s mobility could be a big factor against a tough and very aggressive South Carolina defensive front.

“Cade Klubnik’s pressure numbers are like everybody else’s,” McElroy said this week Always College Football podcast. “They’re not good. When he’s not under pressure, he’s really good. When he’s under pressure, he’s not very good. So is everyone … one key to him might be his legs.”

Stopping the run on Clemson’s end will be just as important in this one. With a player who runs QB power like LaNorris Sellers does, there is a huge challenge for the Tigers. On top of that, there’s the soft run defense Clemson has featured against a wide variety of opponents.

“Clemson’s defense hasn’t been very good this year against the run, relatively speaking,” McElroy said. “They give up 4 yards per carry, Louisville crushed them and most recently The Citadel crushed them.”

McElroy took South Carolina for the upset, claiming the Tigers haven’t seen anything like what they’ll see against the Gamecocks.

Clemson and South Carolina kick off at noon ET in Memorial Stadium on Saturday.