Greg McElroy expects Nolan Hauser to have another busy night when Clemson visits Florida State on Saturday. That could keep the Tigers close, but the ESPN analyst doubts field goals will be enough to get Dabo Swinney’s team back in the win column.
McElroy predicted a 26-22 Florida State victory, picking Clemson to cover as a six-point underdog. His biggest concern is whether the Tigers can turn possessions into touchdowns after reaching scoring territory.
“How many times does Nolan Hauser trot on the field? Clemson scores touchdowns on just 39% of their red zone trips,” McElroy said, “and Hauser has made 18 field goals, tied with the most in the FBS.”
Getting into position for those kicks could present its own challenge. Clemson has surrendered
21 sacks, and Florida State enters with 19, including six from Rylan Kennedy. McElroy sees the Tigers’ short passing game as an opportunity to exploit the Seminoles’ defense, provided the protection gives those plays time to develop.
“Who wins the race between Clemson’s quick throws and Rylan Kennedy?” McElroy said.
Clemson’s defense has a chance to create similar problems. The Tigers have recorded 20 sacks, while Florida State has allowed 18. Pressure could disrupt a Seminoles offense that McElroy expects to keep taking chances downfield despite its protection issues.
That leaves both offenses facing difficult matchups up front, with Clemson’s ability to finish drives looming particularly large in McElroy’s prediction.
Dabo Swinney doesn’t regret Clemson not getting a QB in transfer portal
— Clemson Wire (@Clemson_Wire) October 28, 2026
📸 Ken Ruinard / USA Today Network , USA TODAY Network via Reuters Co https://t.co/KCbXHTrJTp pic.twitter.com/3iIIVG5hq8
“Clemson will kick their way into a cover, and Hauser might get the game ball, but can they finish in the end zone?” he said. “That’s a legitimate question.”
The Tigers (4-3, 2-2 ACC) will look to answer it Saturday at Doak Campbell Stadium against the Seminoles (3-4, 1-3). Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. on ACC Network.
Contact us at @Clemson_Wire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook for ongoing coverage of Clemson Tigers news, notes and opinions.
This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: ESPN’s Greg McElroy makes prediction for Clemson’s cut oral FSU matchup
