Game: (609) Virginia Tech Hokies @ (610) Clemson Tigers
Time: Tues. 11/05 7:00 PM EST at Littlejohn Coliseum
Spread: Clemson -6.5 (-110) ML: -280/+240 Total: 132.5 at 5Dimes
Tools: Public Consensus | View Matchups | Bet This Game
Virginia Tech and Clemson will blast right into ACC action when the Tigers host the Hokies in both teams’ season opener. Both teams lost the bulk of their starting rotations from last season and will have to rely on transfers and young talent. Clemson is coming off its third straight postseason appearance (lost in the second round of NIT), while Virginia Tech lost a Sweet 16 heartbreaker to Duke. The Hokies then saw head coach Buzz Williams bolt for Texas A&M and It’s the Hokies debut for coach Mike Young, who moved over from Wofford. The veteran coach inherits an inexperienced team that lost its top five scorers from a year ago. Clemson is also looking to reload with an influx of transfers.
VIRGINIA TECH (2018-19: 26-9): The Hokies don’t return much production from last year’s Sweet 16 team, but guard Isaiah Wilkins (4.7 points) is a dangerous outside shooter who fits well in Young’s system. Freshman guard’s Cone, Alleyne and Cattoor like to shoot it from the perimeter and 6-foot-7 wing Nolley II is finally eligible after having to redshirt last season. The Hokies don’t have much size inside, as 6-foot-10 freshman John Ojiako is the only real post presence.
CLEMSON (2018-19: 20-14): The Tigers also lost a lot from last season as only two returners averaged more than 2.1 points. Forward Simms (8.1 points, 4.6 rebounds) figures to be the focal point for Clemson, and he put up 16 points and 10 rebounds in an exhibition win over NCAA Division II opponent Anderson. The key for the Tigers is going to be the production of their newcomers, especially graduate transfers Scott (Tulsa) and Mack (Alabama).
Virginia Tech has a new coach and an overhauled rotation at this point with their top five scorers from last season missing. Clemson lost their top three guys and they have a lot of unproven pieces in the mix. We know that both teams can play solid defense and that is going to be the calling card for this one. Given all the missing pieces for Virginia Tech from last season’s team, you have to give the upper hand to Clemson, especially playing at home here.