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The Clemson Tigers routed the Syracuse Orange 54-0 at home this weekend. The Tigers looked like a team possessed from the jump. Clemson had 565 total yards of offense, which is impressive considering Deshaun Watson only played in the first half. Also, the Tigers were all over the field on defense. Syracuse quarterback Eric Dungey was knocked out of the game early in a vicious hit by Ben Bouleware and Dorian O’Daniel.
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Here’s my initial thoughts on Saturday’s action.
Deshaun Watson
Watson was magnificent in his limited time against the Orange. In just one and a half quarters Watson completed 13 of his 16 passing attempts for 169 yards and 1 touchdown. Watson also ran for one score early on in the game. Deshaun looked like the Heisman candidate that we all expected him to be this season. Unfortunately Watson injured his shoulder on a scramble late in the first half and he would not return to the game.
Turnovers
Clemson’s turnover problems were well documented coming into this one. The Tigers came into the game with a -1 turnover margin. Despite their past issues with ball security, Clemson did not turn the ball over once against Syracuse. Brent Venables’ defense forced 3 interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown by redshirt freshman Tanner Muse.
Nick Schuessler
Schuessler was outstanding in relief of Watson. The veteran quarterback completed 11 of his 17 passing attempts for 177 yards and 2 touchdowns. Schuessler targeted Mike Williams early and often. The offense reeled off 31 points under the guidance of Schuessler. Though we all want to see Watson in at quarterback, it is nice to know that the Tigers have a capable back up should Watson be unavailable.
Syracuse was clearly outmatched from a talent standpoint. Once Eric Dungey went out you could see the energy get sucked right out of the Orange. However, Dino Babers’ guys continued to fight, which is a testament to the culture that Babers is building. Syracuse will definitely improve under the direction of Babers.
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