Predicting the Final Score: Syracuse vs. Clemson

The Clemson Tigers know the visiting Syracuse Orange could really throw them for a loop. Despite the fact Clemson is 5-2 and Syracuse is only 3-4, the Orange have one of the more well-rounded teams in the ACC. Meanwhile, the Tigers’ offense has been lukewarm throughout the season. In fact, Clemson needed to rely on its defense to win during its last two games. For the Orange to stand a chance against Clemson, they will have to up their offensive game. When you’re facing the Tigers’ mighty defense, that’s much easier said than done.

Clemson’s offense has been rather timid, with the majority of its scores occurring during spurts in the running game. Its passing game is even more sporadic; quarterback Cole Stoudt only has one passing touchdown this year. The Tigers’ rushing capabilities have been inconsistent, which gives Syracuse a good chance to hold them to a lower score. Syracuse’s best bet to keeping Clemson’s offense down is to force Stoudt to throw or to move out of the pocket. He is more likely to make egregious mistakes since this is far from his comfort zone.

Even if Syracuse manages to hold Clemson’s offense to minimal yardage, it still has to get past the Tiger defense. Only three of Clemson’s opponents have more than 100 yards against them. While the Orange’s rushing offense is pretty efficient, getting past Clemson’s defensive players will prove to be difficult. A.J. Long will have his hands full, especially since he is still getting used to the quarterback position after starter Terrel Hunt was injured against Louisville. Chances are Syracuse will use its running game most of the time.

The first half will be rough for Clemson, but it will hit its stride as the game progresses. Once Stoudt figures out the best way to manipulate the ball, the Tigers should be able to finagle around Syracuse’s defense and into the end zone. With Clemson’s defense steadying the team, the contest will be decided before the third quarter ends.

Clemson 35, Syracuse 13

Gabrielle McMillen is an SEC College Football writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow her on Twitter @GabbyMcMillen, “Like” her on Facebook or add her to your network on Google