Clemson freshman quarterback Trevor Lawrence exited Saturday’s game against Syracuse with about five minutes remaining in the first half after absorbing a head shot while scrambling along the sideline.
Lawrence dropped back to pass under center, avoiding two tackles before moving to his left and running down the sideline. As he gained a few yards, Syracuse defensive back Evan Foster hit him near the ride side of his helmet.
Lawrence was down for a few minutes before walking off under his own power. He was evaluated in the medical tent where the Clemson training staff took away his helmet and Lawrence headed toward the locker room.
In his first career start, Lawrence completed 10 of 15 passes for 93 yards. He was replaced by Chase Brice as the Tigers faced a 16-7 deficit at halftime.
Lawrence was named the starter earlier this week and Kelly Bryant announced he was transferring. Bryant appeared in four games this year and guided the Tigers to an appearance in the College Football Playoff Semifinals last season.
Bryant is 16-2 as a starter but split time with Lawrence. Since he appeared in four games, he can use this season as a redshirt, transfer and immediately become eligible next season.
The 6-foot-5, 205-pound Lawrence is 49 of 75 for 693 yards with nine touchdowns and two interceptions.
