3 Bold Predictions for Clemson vs Syracuse ACC Clash

Week 3's primetime matchup will pit Trevor Lawrence, Travis Etienne, and No. 1 Clemson against Dino Babers and Syracuse. While the Orange were just thumped 63-21 by Maryland last week, they have given the Tigers problems over the last few years, and will be playing at home in the raucous Carrier Dome. In this oddly competitive rivalry, it's always good to expect the unexpected.

3. Moe Neal Has 150 Yards from Scrimmage

The Orange's most dynamic weapon on offense is the smaller, shifty back that is Neal, who can plow up the middle like a back 30 pounds heavier while remaining a threat in the passing game. Rather than have Tommy DeVito chuck it up 50 times, the Orange should strive for balance against Brent Venables' defense, which should mean a hefty workload for Neal.

2. Trevor Lawrence Throws for 400 Yards

Lawrence has been excellent to start the season, but not transcendentally great like he was last year. Expect that to change against an Orange defense that was carved up like a Thanksgiving turkey by Josh Jackson and Maryland. With Justyn Ross and Tee Higgins going against that group. it's safe to say that the Clemson passing game has a favorable matchup. Look for Lawrence to light it up.

1. Syracuse Hangs Around, but Clemson Pulls Away Late

Certain programs give other programs fits for reasons that can't be explained. For the last three years, Syracuse has either beaten Clemson or given the Tigers a solid game. While Babers' up-tempo offense could cause Clemson some problems, that team is too deep on defense to let DeVito get into a rhythm, and the Lawrence/Travis Etienne combo should be enough to give Clemson a road win.