Game Preview: #1 Clemson vs. Syracuse

Sep 12, 2015; Clemson, SC, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) passes the ball during the first half against the Appalachian State Mountaineers at Clemson Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports

The number one team in the country will look to remain undefeated as the Clemson Tigers head north to take on the Syracuse Orange in an ACC Atlantic Division showdown. While Clemson is heavily favored, don’t expect Syracuse to just roll over.

The ‘Cuse still have something to play for as a win would keep bowl hopes alive, despite a 3-6 start to the season. Regardless of record, the Carrier Dome has always acted as an equalizer for the home team. All three of the Orange’s wins this season have come at home. In two home losses, against ranked LSU and Pittsburgh programs, Syracuse fell by just 13 points combined. Unfortunately for the Orange, an injury to Eric Dungey will force the team to turn to Zack Mahoney at quarterback. Mahoney, who began camp as the fifth-string QB, will make his second start of the season.

Clemson, on the other hand, has one of the best quarterbacks in the country. After missing time last season due to a torn ACL, Deshaun Watson has returned better than ever this year. The Tigers haven’t been spared from the injury bug however, as number one receiver Mike Williams was injured in the season opener and is unlikely to return this season. While unfortunate, the absence of Williams has forced others to step up.

Artavis Scott and Charone Peake have stepped up in the receiving game, while running back Wayne Gallman has allowed Clemson to maintain a balanced offense. This is the biggest difference from a year ago, as the team has already rushed for more yards than they did all of last season. Despite the balance, Clemson is expected to air it out early and often. Watson’s accuracy will be the key early in the game.

The reason for this is how poorly Syracuse has defended the pass. The secondary, which has two freshman starting at cornerback, is ranked 111th in the nation. Clemson will attack this weakness immediately and look to build a big lead so Watson can sit out the second half. The only way Syracuse can prevent this game from getting out of hand is by generating a pass rush. This means defensive end Ron Thompson needs to have a big game off the edge, as he will be the key for Syracuse to keep this game competitive.

Prediction:

Syracuse has been tough at home, but LSU and Pittsburgh don’t have the balance on offense that Clemson does. Head coach Dabo Swinney will make sure his team stays focused and hungry. Syracuse needs to keep this game close for as long as possible to keep the crowd involved, but the end result won’t be in doubt.

Clemson wins 45-14.