I really anticipate both Super Regionals involving state schools to be exciting. Here's my take
Alabama vs. Clemson
The Tigers hit a couple of speed bumps during the season and in the ACC Tournament, but they've roared back to within a couple of wins of another trip to Omaha. Alabama stands in the way. While Alabama doesn't have the home-run prowess of SEC and state cohort Auburn, the Crimson Tide are better than Auburn in pitching and defense. Clemson might be better suited for a slugfest than 'Bama, but the Tigers must get pitching comparable to what they got in the Auburn regional. As the Clemson bullpen goes, so go the Tigers' hopes for a series win.
South Carolina vs. Coastal Carolina
Both teams in the Myrtle Beach Regional are driven: USC to erase its recent NCAA frustrations and Coastal to validate its program against an in-state rival with a high national profile. Doing that would get Coastal its most immediate goal -- a first trip to the College World Series. The pitching staffs are comparably statistically, although the Chanticleers' starters may have a slight edge. USC fell behind all three games of its regional before rallying. That won't be advisable this weekend. Can USC keep Coastal's baserunning (160 steals) in check?
All in all, baseball in the state of South Carolina will get to shine on a national stage, with all games set for the ESPN family of networks.
Let's enjoy.
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