News-Record.com

I can see why this Clemson team has taken a major step forward this season. They've got waves of athletes who are able to play the up-tempo full-court pressure style Oliver Purnell has wanted to put in since he came to Clemson four years ago. They also pound the offensive boards relentlessly.

But the biggest difference may be that the Tigers can actually hit open shots when they get them. K.C. Rivers in particular.

That said, it's still just a four-point game. And State's playing without Atsur and, essentially, Courtney Fells. Fells is continuing the spotty play that plagued him against BC as well. He just seems to be two notches below the intensity of everyone else on the floor.

So how is State in it? Well, it helps that Dennis Horner is having a career night. He's hit all three of his 3's and he's playing hard on the defensive end. Ben McCauley is at it again with his passing as well. When State can make it past half-court against Clemson's pressure, they're finishing more often that not. That's translated to a good scoring half for Gavin Grant (13 points, 5 of 5 shooting).

So the upset's still very possible. But I wonder how State will keep from tiring out if Clemson keeps playing at its high pace.