The Clemson Tigers are seeking to overcome the loss of starting quarterback Deshaun Watson as they play Oklahoma in the Russell Athletic Bowl.
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No. 17 Clemson finished their regular season with a 35-17 win over South Carolina, and they are hoping to finish with 10 wins as they face Oklahoma in the Russell Athletic Bowl.
They will have to do so without starting quarterback Deshaun Watson though since he is out with a torn ACL. Cole Stoudt will start in his place.
Running back Wayne Gallman will be expected to pick up the slack in Watson’s place as well. He rushed for 191 yards and a touchdown against South Carolina.
Meanwhile, Oklahoma has been playing without their starting quarterback, Trevor Knight, for the last three games with transient quadriplegia.
He is expected to return for the bowl game though, but running back Samaje Perine and wide receiver Sterling Shepard are also questionable.
Perine has been nursing an ankle injury while Shepard missed three games with a groin injury before returning in limited fashion against Oklahoma State.
All key Sooners players are expected to be at full strength for the bowl game though. However, Clemson’s defense will be a force to be reckoned with as defensive end Vic Beasley produces a fierce pass rush.
The Clemson offense will be tested with Watson out, but the Oklahoma defense has been inconsistent this season. If Gallman can give the Tigers an early lead, Stoudt will have the pressure off his shoulders.
Prediction: Clemson 27, Oklahoma 21
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