Orange Bowl: Tennessee vs. Clemson Prediction, Odds & Picks (Friday, Dec. 30)

Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) stands in the pocket against the Purdue Boilermakers during the second half at Nissan Stadium.
Image Credit: Steve Roberts-USA TODAY Sports

It’s the Capital One Orange Bowl, and Tennessee is set to face Clemson on Friday, Dec. 30. The game is scheduled for 8 pm ET while airing on ESPN. Clemson enters this game as 5.5-point favorites with the total set at 63.5. How will this one play out? Let’s dive into the Tennessee vs. Clemson prediction for the Orange Bowl below.

Orange Bowl Odds: Tennessee vs. Clemson

  • Spread: Clemson -6
  • Total: 63.5

Odds via Betfred. Click here to redeem our exclusive Betfred Promo Code for $250 in free bets!

Game Info

  • Date: Friday, Dec. 30
  • Time: 8 pm ET
  • Location: Hard Rock Stadium – Miami Gardens, FL
  • TV: ESPN

Tennessee Betting Trends

  • Volunteers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 non-conference games.
  • Volunteers are 9-3 ATS in their last 12 games overall.
  • Over is 7-1 in Volunteers last 8 non-conference games.

Clemson Betting Trends

  • Tigers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 Bowl games.
  • Under is 4-0 in Tigers last 4 neutral site games.
  • Under is 9-3 in Tigers last 12 Bowl games.

Tennessee vs. Clemson Predictions

Tennessee is down its top two receivers, Jalin Hyatt and Cedric Tillman, but there are still plenty of playmakers on this Volunteer offense. The Clemson defense is legit, ranking 16th in opponent scoring and 19th in total defense. However, it’s going to be strength vs. strength, as Tennessee boasts the highest-scoring offense in the nation while ranking first in total yardage as well.

Clemson is no slouch on the offensive side too, especially with QB Cade Klubnik taking over. Klubnik has more upside (and accuracy) than former starter D.J. Uiagalelei, who struggled for the last two seasons. We know the Tigers have the ability to run the ball behind a talented offensive line, but installing an accurate quarterback into the mix raises the potential of this offense. Frankly, if Klubnik started sooner in the season, there’s a chance Clemson would be in the College Football Playoff.

This is going to be a fun, back-and-forth game. Tennessee is going to need an outstanding performance from QB Hendon Hooker, and he has delivered those against top-tier teams several times this season. Expect the Volunteers to keep this one close while having a chance to win it late. Tennessee plus the points is the bet for this entertaining battle.

The Pick: Tennessee +6 | -110 at Betfred Sportsbook