Ohio State football: Previewing Potential Playoff Foes

Sep 20, 2014; Tallahassee, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) scrambles up the field against the Florida State Seminoles during the first quarter at Doak Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

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Clemson Tigers

ACC, HC Dabo Swinney

The Buckeyes could very well end up meeting with the Clemson Tigers for the second time in three years in postseason play. A vastly different team will be on the field if the two meet up in 2016. Clemson has been able to sustain their success in recent years and that should continue into the upcoming season, even with a plethora of losses to their roster. The Tigers’ top ranked defense from last season, in particular, has been stripped of copious amounts of talent. Only three starters return and the defense will have to adjust quickly if they want a chance at making the playoff.

Defensive end Shaq Lawson will make life a little easier for the Tigers. The potential star recorded 3.5 sacks despite playing in rotation with first-round pick Vic Beasley and Corey Crawford. The difference between a so-so season and a special one will essentially ride on quarterback Deshaun Watson. Coming off of a torn ACL that required surgery in December, the sophomore will need to quickly prove that he’s healthy and is back to his dynamic, difference-making self. If Watson is at full strength in 2015, the Tigers should be considered nothing short of title contenders.

Next: USC Trojans