3 Bold Predictions for Ohio State vs Clemson in College Football Playoff

Despite taking down Wisconsin in the Big Ten Championship Game, the Buckeyes were bumped down from the top overall seed into the No. 2 slot. That sets them up for a matchup with Dabo Swinney and Clemson in the CFP.

These teams, obviously, represent two of the most formidable squads in the nation, dominant on both ends of the football. This matchup should go down to the wire, so here are three bold predictions ahead of the must-see clash.

1. Trevor Lawrence Throws for 300 Yards and 3 Touchdowns

Trevor Lawrence will try to lead Clemson past Ohio State in the CFP / Streeter Lecka/Getty Images

Trevor Lawrence's rough start to the season appears to be a thing of the past, and Clemson's signal caller has been a stud throughout the second half of the year. The Buckeyes' defense will represent his toughest test yet, but Lawrence is talented enough to carve them up. With weapons like Tee Higgins and Justyn Ross at his disposal, Lawrence could wind up throwing for over 300 yards with a trio of touchdown passes.

2. Chase Young Records 3+ Sacks

Ohio State's Chase Young is the nation's best defender. / Quinn Harris/Getty Images

While Justin Fields and Trevor Lawrence may be the most recognized names in this game, Ohio State boasts arguably the best defender, and possibly all-around player, in the nation in Chase Young. No matter how good Clemson's OL might be, Young will be a nuisance, using his NFL-ready pass-rushing skill set to get after Lawrence all game long. He could walk away with double-digit tackles and multiple sacks in this one.

3. Justin Fields Records 250 Yards Passing and 100 Yards Rushing

Justin Fields may need to use his legs to get after Clemson in the CFP. / Andy Lyons/Getty Images

Clemson, while not having faced many formidable opponents this season, have yet to surrender more than 20 points in a game. On the other hand, Ohio State hasn't scored fewer than 28, and only scored fewer than 30 points one time this season. In a battle between a top-tier offense and top-tier defense, Justin Fields will have his work cut out for him, but he's more than ready for the challenge and should still string together a huge night. Whether it be via his legs or through the air, Fields is going to put up big numbers. He threw for 40 touchdowns and ran for 10 more, so expect him to utilize his dual-threat ability in this one.