Keys to the Game: Clemson vs. Syracuse

The Match-Up:

Clemson (1-2, 0-1 ACC) vs. Syracuse (2-1, 0-0 ACC)

The Tigers return to Memorial Stadium for their ACC home opener against Syracuse. Clemson holds a commanding edge in the all-time series, but the Orange have a history of making things tough — from the 2017 upset in the Carrier Dome to several close calls in Death Valley. This is a pivotal contest for Dabo Swinney’s group after a frustrating 24-21 loss at Georgia Tech.

Kickoff:

• Saturday, Sept. 20, 12:00
• TV: ESPN
• Memorial Stadium, Clemson, S.C.

Last Week: Clemson sputtered offensively in Atlanta, dropping its ACC opener 24-21 to Georgia Tech. Cade Klubnik threw for 223 yards with a touchdown and an interception, but the Tigers were inconsistent in the run game and gave up too many critical plays down the stretch. A walk-off 55-yard kick set Clemson back for the second time in three weeks, placing their backs against the wall early. 

Series History:

Clemson leads the all-time series 10-2. Syracuse’s last win came in 2017, while the Tigers have won six straight in the series.

Swanny’s Rant & Reality Check:

“Here’s the thing with Cade Klubnik — at times, it’s like he thinks the game is in slow motion. Dude, spin the ball. Play full speed. I’ll say this — if Clemson plays to its ceiling, there’s no reason they shouldn’t handle Syracuse. The duds are done. Tigers get it right this weekend.”

Keys to Victory:

Creativity on Offense: Use motion, pop passes, and downhill runs to stress linebackers and give Klubnik defined reads. Clemson’s offense has to find its rhythm early. It also seems important to get Klubnik playing at an uptempo pace. For whatever reason, he’s thinking way too much—trying to win the Heisman with every throw. Just be you. I don’t think he’s handled the pressure on or off the field, and he’s got to do that for things to straighten out in Tiger Town.

Reestablish the Run: Keep Adam Randall in the stat sheet throughout the game. He has been steady, but Clemson needs balance to stay out of long-yardage traps. Also, take advantage of Randall’s ability to influence the game by catching the ball out of the backfield. The lack of offensive creativity is concerning. Give me some eye candy, give me Tyler Brown or Antonio Williams in motion, fake the pop pass, let Randall come downhill and lead block for Klubnik. Garrett Riley needs to put the defense in conflict and make the game easier for the entire offense.

Finish Drives: Missed chances plagued the Tigers at Georgia Tech. Field goals can’t replace touchdowns if Clemson wants to separate from Syracuse. Last weekend, we focused on not leaving points in Atlanta, and the Tigers left more than enough to win the game on the turf at Bobby Dodd Stadium. Fortunately, this is in Death Valley, I’m not sure the Tigers are tuned up for another road game just yet. 

Prediction:

Both teams enter with question marks, but Clemson is at home with its season hanging in the balance. I’d love to say expect more motion and creativity from Garrett Riley, but I’ll use the word hope instead. My guess is that we get a bounce-back game from Cade Klubnik and the Tigers’ defense to keep the pass-happy Orange offense from finding a rhythm.

The Pick: Clemson 31-17

Season Record: 1-2

Swanny’s Predictions:

✅ = Correct Prediction