Record YTD: 3-4

I’ll admit this game has me a little nervous based on Notre Dame getting absolutely crushed by Duke in their last game, but what has me scratching my head is the line value.  Not only are the Irish a small 3.5 point favorite, but less than 20% of the betting public support Clemson…yet the line remains steady.  

This is a classic situation where odds-makers need the Tigers to cover and I have learned many times throughout my handicapping career, being on the other side is playing with fire.  So why is Vegas giving Clemson so much respect? 

• Clemson’s defense ranks 39^h overall
• Clemson’s opponents average less than 40% from the field.
• Notre Dame’s road defense has been horrific this year ranking 258^th
• 2^nd shot opportunities….Tigers are among the best in the ACC in offensive rebounds. 

Many will believe this is a bounce back spot for Notre Dame considering their 30 point loss they suffered last Saturday, but with the Irish supporting a 15-33-3 ATS record following a S.U. loss, I wouldn’t be so optimistic.  The odds-makers are taking a position with Clemson, so I won’t overthink it.  With the Tigers needing more signature wins, I’ll take the small points and root on the home pup. 

Consider Clemson +3.5