Certainly, Dabo Swinney’s critics admire his commitment to his convictions. In the current era of college football, Swinney is a throwback. Swiney rarely uses the transfer portal and does not emphasize NIL. Instead, Swinney focuses on recruitment, development, education, and relationships. As a coach who believes in the old College Football odds values, Dabo has plenty of fans who hope he can defy the times. And perhaps he can. Clemson has recruited at a very good, although not great, level.
Georgia Bulldogs vs. Clemson Tigers NCAAF Betting Information
| Date and Time: | Saturday, August 31, 2024, noon ET |
|---|---|
| Location: | Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA. |
| TV Coverage: | ABC |
| Team | Spread | Total | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clemson | +13½ -110 | 49 -110 | +425 |  |
| Georgia | -13½ -110 | 49 -110 | -575 | |
| ||||
Specifically, with its emphasis on player growth and development, the Tigers believe they can make the College Football Playoff. Also, they can potentially pull off some surprises along the way.
Georgia Bulldogs Team Overview
At the onset, Kirby Smart’s team is the betting favorite to win the national championship this year. Last year, Georgia missed out on the College Football Playoff. Cause by a loss to Alabama in the SEC Championship game. But the Bulldogs returned most of their key starters from a year ago. Including quarterback Carson Beck. There might not be a team in college football with as much talent as the Dawgs. And they’ll undoubtedly play with some online wagering edge after last season.
Clemson Tigers Team Overview
Five straight wins to end the 2023 season should indeed give Clemson confidence. But what is the Tigers’ ceiling? They have been an AP preseason Top 10 team for the past three years. But Clemson finished no higher than No. 13 in the final poll during that span. Still, Clemson is an upper-tier ACC team but has work to do to be a playoff contender.
The season opener against Georgia may set the tone, for better or for worse. As usual, the Tigers should be strong on defense once again. However, the development of the offense behind second-year coordinator Garrett Riley is critical. So, too, will quarterback Cade Klubnik decide how high this team can climb in the ACC and CFB Playoff picture.
At the beginning of 2023, quarterback Cade Klubnik was being floated as a dark horse Heisman Trophy candidate. That buzz quickly fizzled as the Tigers started 2-2 and finished with their worst record since 2011. Klubnik’s talent is undeniable, but he was far too up and down as a first-year starter. In sum, he posted a 19-9 touchdown-to-interception ratio and a No. 80 national ranking in QBR.
Highly regarded offensive coordinator Garrett Riley promised explosiveness. But his unit rarely looked the part during his first year. The Tigers ranked No. 50 nationally in total yards per game. To reach an elite level, this group needs more consistency from Klubnik. Also, Clemson needs more push from the offensive line and more production from the wide receivers. Phil Mafah (965 yards, 13 TDs) will be one of the ACC’s best running backs, and tight end Jake Briningstool (498 receiving yards) is a future pro. Two new, highly touted WR recruits could provide a boost.
Under former analyst Wes Goodwin, who succeeded the legendary Brent Venables as defensive coordinator in 2022, Clemson dazzled once again. Overall, the Tigers finished in the Top 10 nationally in total defense and passing defense while tying for the national lead in forced turnovers (28).
Georgia vs. Clemson SBG Free Picks
On this occasion, Clemson will offer more College Football odds value. Georgia will be overpriced with too much casual support.
Georgia vs. Clemson SBG Best Bet: Clemson Tigers.