League of Legends LCS predictions: Week 8, Day 2

Cloud9 (9-6) vs. Liquid (12-3)

C9’s management probably got a lot of flak from their fans for the decision to sub in Deftly at ADC in place of Sneaky. I wouldn’t be surprised if they go back to their long-time ADC, but I also think it doesn’t really matter who they put up against the best bot lane duo in the LCS.

For C9 to win, they need to play primarily through their top side match-up (Licorice vs. Impact) with jungle (Svenskeren vs. Xmithie). Mid can also tilt in C9’s direction, but I don’t think it can outweigh the bot lane mismatch.

Prediction: Liquid

Echo Fox (3-12) vs. CLG (10-5)

CLG has a chance to all-but clinch the first-round bye if TSM and C9 lose (which is likely) against the worst team in the LCS. Echo Fox put up a spirited fight yesterday against TSM, but I don’t think they’re going to have the same success against CLG.

Prediction: CLG

Clutch (6-9) vs. FlyQuest (5-10)

Clutch has teased us with talent all year, but they have never been able to put it together when it matters. Today, it matters the most, as they play a team they should beat with a chance to gain ground in the playoff picture.

A loss all-but eliminated Clutch, while FlyQuest (though mathematically still alive) is all-but eliminated already. However, they did play spoiler to Cloud9 yesterday, so maybe there are the makings to a magical run?

Prediction: Clutch

The LCS returns today at 3:00 EST on Twitch.tv/Riotgames