Idaho??

So supposedly Idaho is going to replace Central Michigan in the football schedule. This has led to a whole lot of debate, already, as to why Clemson is playing such a soft out of conference schedule(MTSU, Idaho, Coastal Carolina, and Middle Carolina) versus those who dont mind the easy win. Those who want a tougher schedule generally want to be entertained by better caliber games and a funner gameday atmosphere, pointing to the boost of name recognition, tv exposure, and the Clemson brand that comes with playing tougher opponents. Craig Loston wanted to come to Clemson initially after seeing us beat FSU on tv, first big game of the season. Another argument for a tougher OOC schedule is that it helps the team play better competition making them better during conference play. Winning too easily can give a false sense of superiority and cause the team to become complacent, especially relaxing during practice, ultimately making them play softer.

The opposite side says the word ALABAMA...with the spotlight on Clemson choked, this hurt recruiting, player morale, chaos in the locker room, and didnt help at all going into the conference. Beating up on weak teams should save the team from injuries(not always the case, Anthony Waters) and at least give your reserves the chance to log some quality minutes. An inexperienced Oline and QB can gel and you work out the kinks of your schemes. It can also give an inexperienced coach some experience, especially since Dabo hasnt been a clock management genius up to this point. The biggest point though is probably that wins are what is needed and with more wins comes the exposure and better recruiting. While a big national tv spectacle can really give you momentum it can also knock the wind out of you--best not to run the risk.

I'm going to propose a middle road. If you think your team is good enough then by all means schedule the game. In Tommy's defense, we didnt know Bama was going to be that good-that quick, and at the beginning of the season. So it seemed a safe bet. And I think thats what these games are--bets. A large part of the success of your season rests on what you do when you draw attention to yourself and create that big game.

With strength of schedule not factoring in much to BCS outcomes, Clemson is going to be constrained by the general view of the ACC if its competing for the natl championship so if that is what your gunning for then bring on the big game. If not I would try to schedule a game against a mid-level opponent, in an area where you are targeting some recruits. I'm thinking a Miss St. or a Vanderbilt, perhaps a Louisville if they continue to struggle. Someone you are confident you will beat but not totally destroy. Obviously easier said than done but with a bunch of question marks and a brand new everything coaching staff-I think I'll take Idaho over Georgia this year. Even if it is Idaho, doesnt mean you cant tailgate...