GAME BREAKDOWN
KEY MATCHUP: It will be interesting to see how Clemson freshman quarterback Trevor Lawrence fares in his first game as a starter, particularly since he’ll be facing a Syracuse defense that isn’t exactly formidable against the pass. Lawrence also has plenty of tall targets at his disposal, including a trio of big-play receivers who all check in at 6-foot-4: Tee Higgins, Diondre Overton and Justyn Ross. They have combined for seven of the Tigers’ 11 touchdown receptions this season and more could be in the offing against a Syracuse secondary with no starter taller than 6-0.
DRAFT SLANT
–DT Christian Wilkins is rated as the No. 1 defensive tackle prospect by nfldraftscout.com and continues to show why. He had a workmanlike three tackles in Clemson’s win at Georgia Tech last week, but was a disruptive force in many ways. Fast (5.04 in the 40) and agile for a 6-3, 300-pounder, Wilkins had two tackles for loss, including a sack, forced a fumble and recovered a fumble against the Yellow Jackets.
ROSTER REPORT:
–LB Kendall Joseph, who missed the Georgia Tech game last week with a groin injury, is probable for Saturday’s game against Syracuse.
–OT Noah DeHond is suffering from “a nerve issue” and may face surgery. Swinney said he’s probably done for the season, but could get a medical redshirt.
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