Florida State vs Clemson: Spread Analysis and Pick Prediction

The biggest matchup in college football doesn’t involve an SEC team for the first time all season. Instead, it’s No. 3-ranked Clemson vs. No. 5 Florida State in an ACC clash pitting two Heisman Trophy candidates at the controls.

Point spread: Florida State opened as 3-point road favorites; the total was 64 early in the week (Line updates and Matchup report).

Computer Prediction: 42-29 FSU (from OddsShark.com college picks computer)

Why Florida State can cover the spread

Florida State’s win over Maryland marked the ninth straight victory for the Seminoles over an ACC opponent, while the Seminoles have won 11 of their last 12 games against ACC foes. Winning becomes contagious, and this year the 'Noles are already 3-0 in league play thanks to their stellar offense.

Why Clemson can cover the spread

This is arguably the biggest game of the season for the Tigers, and don't think for a moment it hasn't escaped them each of the last four years the winner of this game has gone on to win the Atlantic Division championship.

And each of the last two years the winner of this game has won the ACC championship. The Tigers are 7-3 ATS as home underdogs since 2003.

Smart Pick

Some are saying this is the biggest game in ACC history, and with ESPN's College GameDay crew rolling into town, the Tigers can only hope analyst Lee Corso picks against them to provide even more motivation. Florida State's offense is lethal, but Death Valley will prove to be fatal for the 'Noles. Clemson escapes.

Trends:

FSU is just 1-7 ATS past 8 games vs. Clemson.

Clemson 5-0 SU & ATS past five at home to Seminoles.

Note: All spread and odds data powered by Odds Shark—follow them on Twitter for injury updates and line move updates.