Tiger Tracker: How Did Clemson Perform Against Syracuse?

Offense: C-

The offense wasn't horrific on Friday. The Tigers found some big plays on the ground through Tavien Feaster (7 carries, 57 yards, one touchdown) and Travis Etienne (5 carries, 68 yards, one touchdown), despite not having the threat of the run from Kelly Bryant.

Bryant, despite not being 100 percent, was reasonably efficient through the air (12-17, 116 yards) before leaving just before the half with a concussion.

In his absence, Clemson struggled to move the ball in the second half outside of a 52-yard scamper by Etienne. Zerrick Cooper was okay passing the ball (10-14, 88 yards) but was not able to connect on any big plays. Overall, the Tigers learned they need Bryant on the field and 100 percent to be successful on offense. 

Defense: C-

It's hard to get too upset with the defense, as they were stuck on the field against the tempo of Syracuse for the majority of the game while the offense sputtered. But from the start, the defense looked undisciplined and disinterested as Syracuse marched down the field on the first drive, going 72 yards in 10 plays.

The defense gave up multiple big busts in the secondary, allowed crucial third downs to be converted, and did not get the push that fans are so accustomed to seeing. Clemson always seems to have one game like this per season. They can't have another if they want a shot at the playoffs. 

Special Teams: D

It finally happened. We've been sending out warnings about the kicking game every week since Clemson lost Greg Huegal to a torn ACL, and the kicking game finally bit the Tigers. Alex Spence missed two field goals, scores which would have ultimately won the game for Clemson.

Kick and punt returns were a non-factor as well. Will Spiers did have another solid night punting, but made a poor choice in faking a punt on Clemson's last possession. Clemson needs a ton of work on the kicking game because this will not be the final game in which the Tigers will need their special teams to pull out a game.