Clemson Football: 3 takeaways from Tigers’ comeback win over Syracuse

2. Defense bent, but didn’t break most of the game

From the opening drive, you could quickly tell that Syracuse was going to do everything they could to keep the Tigers defense on their heels.

Eric Dungey and company mixed in a few passes and runs on that first series to get into field goal range after a questionable timeout by Clemson ruined an opening drive three-and-out.

Syracuse struggled to run the ball all game and averaged just 2.3 yards per carry. Although Eric Dungey scored two rushing touchdowns, neither was for more than a yard.

After the muffed punt near the end of the third quarter, Syracuse had the ball inside the 10-yard line. The defense was put in a tough spot and eventually gave up a touchdown, but overall it was a solid game stopping the run.

Dungey had an up and down game, finishing with 26-for-41 for 250 yards and an interception.

The real big issue for the Tigers defense was a lack of a pass rush, as Dungey seemed to have all the time in the world to throw the ball to his receivers.

The Tigers face Wake Forest next week and will look for an improved effort from the talented defensive line.