The Syracuse Orange (2-1, 0-0) will open ACC play this Saturday when they travel to face the Clemson Tigers (1-2, 0-1). It’s a Noon kickoff on ESPN and here’s what we’re watching for:
Kevin: Control the tempo
We know the strength of this Clemson team is the defense and the Syracuse offense under Jeff Nixon has been outstanding at generating drives of double-digit plays. This kind of tempo can help negate the Tigers pass rush and short, quick passes to the outside can soften the middle. If Clemson’s
off-balanced, it might allow Syracuse to find more room to run and keep the heat off Angeli. If Syracuse can keep the Tigers chasing, it’ll put more pressure on a program that does not want to fall to 1-3.
Augie: Angeli Enjoying the Opportunity
Memorial Stadium stands as one of the most intimidating places for a visiting team to play in the Atlantic Coastal Conference. Regardless of the opponent, game time, or Clemson’s recent performance, Tiger fans will pack that stadium and bring relentless energy. Steve Angeli is leading the country in passing yards, he is exuding confidence of late, and I don’t want the offensive gameplan to change based on the opponent this weekend. I want to see Angeli make a big time throw early in the ballgame, relax the shoulders, and put a smile on his face soaking in the moment. If that happens, I truly believe the Orange can make this a ballgame.
Max: Keep Klubnik in the pocket
Clemson’s quarterback ran early and often last weekend against Georgia Tech, leading the Tigers in rushing attempts (17) and finishing second on the team in rushing yards (62) while adding a touchdown. Even if the Syracuse defense has the passing game bottled up, it has to be wary of Klubnik on the ground. The more Elijah Robinson’s unit keeps Clemson’s QB from scrambling, the better chance the Orange have of pulling the upset.
Casey: Change the Pace
Clemson might only be 1–2, but it’s no secret how hard it is to play at Death Valley. For Syracuse, this feels like the kind of game where you have to play differently than you normally would. Instead of sticking to the usual flow, I want to see the Orange keep Clemson’s defense guessing. It’s a long season, and sometimes you’ve got to adjust the style. If Syracuse can change the pace and force Clemson out of their comfort zone, they’ll give themselves a chance in this one.
Dom: Who wins the turnover battle
The sample size is small, but Clemson’s offense has topped 20 points twice and not gotten more than 27. That said, the Tigers’ final score will be a lot higher if there’s a forced pass or fumble from the Orange. It’s still a semi-long-shot for the Orange to win, but protecting the ball will be critical. The worst-case scenario for Syracuse is this turning into the Tennessee playbook where the Tigers pick up an easy score or two off self-inflicted wounds. On the flip side, even with its struggles, Clemson’s offense can and will pop. Do the Orange get some good field position off Tigers’ mistakes and take the crowd out of the game early?
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What will you be watching for in this one?
