Florida State vs. Clemson: Spiller vs. Ponder

TAMPA - A lot of hubbub has been made in the College Football landscape surrounding the recent burst of special teams and the running output of a talented young man out of Clemson, South Carolina this 2009 season. Leading the ACC (second in the nation) averaging an astounding 38 yards per kick return, combined with an offensive output of 185 all-purpose yards per game (good enough for second best in the nation as well), feature back C.J. Spiller has captivated the hearts of college football fans with his bursting plays and jaw-dropping pinball like change of direction.

While still premature, there has even been a few whispers of Heisman talk in the air surrounding the talented senior running back. This year's Clemson Tigers team finally seems capable of making it to that statement BCS game, should the play making of Dabo Swinney's new offense continue to win games behind the momentum of the talented Spiller.

This Saturday evening, many parts of the country will witness a match-up that used to be heralded as the "Bowden Bowl." Well, with Bobby less than a year away from retirement, and questions looming over who will replace defensive coordinator—Mickey Andrews next season, this game could be about two other men squaring off—two men who may themselves become household names, on Sundays. On one sideline, Mr. Spiller—on the side, Florida State quarterback, Christian Ponder.

There is no secret that C.J. Spiller has begun to pick up steam as one of the most revered all-purpose backs in the nation, not only for his play making ability as a featured back, but also as a special teams return man. Ponder, however, has been kept somewhat obscured from the public's eye even though he has managed to single-handedly lead the Seminoles to the top spot within the ACC in total offense, passing offense, and scoring offense.

Ponder, who is currently third in the country in total offense and 13th in passer efficiency, was recently overlooked for a semi-finalist spot in this year's Davey O'Brien Award, which is awarded to the nation's best quarterback.

Granted, there is some strong company in that pool, Ponder has still managed to impress in nearly every passing category, especially when compared to some of the more recognizable names in college football:

Tim Tebow (Florida)—Ponder has a higher completion percentage, three more touchdown passes, and one interception fewer all of which was with 140 more pass attempts than the former Heisman winner.

Colt McCoy (Texas)—Ponder has nearly identical stats in completion percentage and touchdown passes, a higher passer rating, and five fewer interceptions.

Jacory Harris (Miami)—Ponder has a higher completion percentage, eight less interceptions, and only three fewer passing touchdowns.

Most impressive of all is Ponder has managed these stats with one of the most difficult schedules in the country. From Jeff Sagarin, to Lindy's Magazine, to Phil Steele, many of the top experts would make an argument that Ponder's stats are not only impressive, but mind boggling—once you consider the team he quarterbacks.

Breaking down the numbers, it is very difficult to find a compelling argument as to why the redshirt junior did not get any consideration for the Davey O'Brien Award when some of his peers did, except to consider the record of the team he plays for, who just so happens to be 4-4.

Fortunately, the Maxwell Award, which is one of several awards given to the nation's best player, has recognized Christian's achievements and selected him as a semi-finalist for their prestigious hardware.

So while he may not be recognized as one of the nation's best passers this year, perhaps he has made the O'Brien committee do an about-face on their selection. Should Ponder's numbers continue as projected, there is little to no reason why he won't start hearing some whispering of his own in Tallahassee for another statue. 

Perhaps that is a bit of a stretch, but before the season started, it was a stretch to mention Ponder in the same league as a Sam Bradford or Tim Tebow. This Saturday night could possibly be a demonstration of two colossal talents in the making. 

Will it be Ponder's night to wake up the national selection committees, or will it be Spiller's? With FSU's 101st ranked rush defense and with Clemson's pass defense ranked fifth in the country, it would seem more favorable for Spiller than it would Ponder.

However, Ponder fared quite well in his last outing against a top 10 passing defense, so it's anyone's guess.

One thing is certain,this game will go a long way toward clearing up the muddy ACC Atlantic picture and it should make for some exciting prime-time college football. 

Florida State 38-Clemson 34