Florida State At Clemson: Three Key Matchups For Seminoles To Break Losing Streak

Florida State is gearing up to head to Death Valley to take on Clemson in an attempt to snap a seven-game losing streak. Currently, the Seminoles are the No. 4 team in the nation, holding a 3-0 record. They dropped one spot after squeaking away with a 31-29 win over Boston College.

Winning this matchup could mean a lot for the Seminoles. Not only have the Tigers taken down the Seminoles seven straight times, but they've dominated the ACC in that span. This year, the Seminoles have the ability to flip the script as an ACC Champion-hopeful team. A win over the Tigers would push the program over a huge hurdle in their championship chase.

Here are three key matchups to monitor during Florida State's Week 4 matchup against Clemson.

1. Florida State Defense vs. Big Plays

If Florida State isn't careful, they could be blown out of the water. Boston College nearly came back after scoring 19 unanswered points in the back end of the game. The Seminoles had Boston College's back against the wall many times, but the Eagles consistently converted on huge third and fourth down plays. If FSU gets the Tigers to third and long, they're going to have to finish the stop and the defense has to get off the field.

Clemson has converted 19 of their 39 attempts on third downs, under a 50 percent conversion rate. The Seminoles' defense must find a way off the field when they put themselves in good positions.

2. Trey Benson vs. Clemson Run Defense

Last year, Benson's emergence didn't come until after the matchup against Clemson. At the time, the Tigers were ranked No. 4, and Benson still got seven touches for 69 rushing yards. He averaged a solid 9.9 yards per carry. This year, he has the opportunity to do more.

Benson has had a subpar season this year after seeing plenty of expectations, even with four touchdowns in three games. The Seminoles will need Benson to be reliable on the ground to open things up offensively.

Clemson has allowed under 100 rushing yards per game, so if the Seminoles can find success there, they can blow this game open in a potential runaway.

3. Florida State Front Four vs. Clemson Offense

Will Shipley was a huge factor last season. He had 121 rushing yards on 20 attempts, leading Clemson to a victory in Tallahassee. He has the ability to absolutely change this game for the Tigers and will slowly pick apart the Seminoles' defense. The front four for FSU has the ability to stop this, though.

Last year, the Tigers also threw the ball decently efficiently, scoring three touchdowns in the air. The front four needs to disrupt the quarterback, get consistent pressure and make life easier for the secondary.

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