Clemson has an opportunity to build momentum Saturday, but Syracuse looks more dangerous than expected.
The Tigers (5-3) rebounded from a frustrating loss to Virginia Tech with a much-needed road victory over Florida State. Clemson scored 36 points and doubled its season passing touchdown total after weeks of struggles.
Syracuse, meanwhile, has recovered from a 2-4 start. Quarterback Steve Angeli struggled following his return from injury, but the Orange have since won consecutive games.
ESPN recently pointed to Syracuse’s improvement as a reason Clemson should be cautious:
“The Tigers now turn their attention to a resurgent Syracuse, which has found life after a 2-4 start with a healthy Steve Angeli at QB and first-year student Calvin Russell III
(17 catches, two TDs and a game-winning 2-point conversion in the past three weeks) at receiver. After taking Louisville to the wire three weeks ago, the Orange have knocked off North Carolina and SMU in back-to-back weeks. Syracuse has played seven FBS games, and all but one were decided by a touchdown or less (a 27-13 loss to Pitt).”
Now 4-4, Syracuse is chasing bowl eligibility, something Clemson can secure with a victory Saturday.
Former coach Billy Donlon survives 13 lead changes for first EMU win
— Clemson Wire (@Clemson_Wire) November 4, 2026
📸 Kirby Lee, Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports https://t.co/9qWBWRmeLS pic.twitter.com/g72LjP4M4J
The Tigers will need another strong offensive performance, pressure on Angeli and better control of the line of scrimmage. If Clemson can deliver in those areas, it should have the advantage.
Still, Syracuse has proven capable of hanging around against quality opponents. Clemson cannot afford to overlook the Orange, with another important victory within reach this weekend.
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This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: ESPN has Clemson vs Syracuse as more intense than you may expect
