Clemson Tigers vs. Maryland Terrapins: Spread Analysis and Pick Prediction

Clemson was pulverized at home by Florida State last week in the type of demoralizing loss that can sink a season. They stand to get better at Maryland, but can they muster the motivation and strength to cover two touchdowns on the college football line?

The computer says no.

Point spread: Clemson opened as 13-point road favorites; the total was 60.5 as of Wednesday. (Line updates and Matchup report)

Computer Prediction: 40-30 Clemson

Why the Tigers can cover the spread

Back to the basics. That's what Clemson offensive coordinator Chad Morris has proclaimed after his Tigers managed just 38 points combined against Boston College and Florida State. That's a big difference from the 44 points per game they averaged over the first five weeks.

Clemson will be eager to rebound from last weekend's 51-14 defeat to the Seminoles, and they have been a terrific bet on the road lately at 7-1 ATS.

Why the Terrapins can cover the spread

It's Homecoming week in College Park, Maryland, and the Terrapins will be fired up to kick the Tigers while they're down. Though the Terps aren't making a lot of noise out of the Atlantic Coast Conference, their defense isn't too shabby, ranking 25th in the nation.

Maryland ranks second in the ACC and 27th nationally against the run (123.7 yards per game) and looks to keep reversing a negative home trend (4-1 ATS lately on the heels of a 1-7-1 ATS run at home).

Smart Pick

The Tigers have had their problems in the past, and now they come in after Florida State showed the blueprint on how to beat them and are laying double digits in a tough spot. Clemson had to rally from 18 points down in the second half for a 56-45 win the last time it played in College Park, two years ago.

Looks like a live dog.

Trends:

Clemson is 7-1 ATS in its last eight games on the road.

Maryland is just 5-11-1 ATS in its last 17 games at home.

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