The set-up: I don't think that the home floor advantage can be overlooked as a very real deciding factor in this particular matchup. The Tigers are 4-5 in the ACC and they'll be very hungry for a win here. VT had won three straight before falling 72-64 to Louisville last time out. The Hokies played just six players in the one with three starters playing 38 or more minutes. The Tigers come in "under the radar." After losing five of six, Clemson has now three straight over Pitt, Wake Forest and Georgia Tech. Virginia Tech averages 76.7 PPG and it allows 60.8. Clemson averages 71 PPG and it allow 64.6.

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Va Tech is just 1-4 ATS in its last five following an ATS loss, while Clemson is 7-0 ATS in its last seven following a SU win of more than 20 points and 5-1 ATS in its last six in front of the home town crowd. Lay the short points and expect a blowout.

8* play