Clemson Prepares for Syracuse’s Top Offensive and Defensive Threats

Clemson heads to Syracuse after a 36-24 win over Florida State, in which freshman quarterback Tait Reynolds threw for three touchdowns. The Tigers will face an Orange team led by head coach Fran Brown, with several players presenting different challenges on offense and defense.

Running backs Ahmad Miller and Tylik Hill have each carried the ball 98 times entering Week 10. Miller has taken on a bigger role recently, scoring twice against North Carolina and once against SMU. Hill also made an impact against SMU, gaining 54 yards on 10 carries. Clemson’s defense has allowed 123 ground yards each game and 3.58 yards per rush.

On defense, Johnson leads Syracuse with six sacks in eight games. He recorded two sacks and six tackles against SMU. Clemson has limited opposing edge rushers in its last two games, but Johnson arrives after his strongest outing of the season.

Hatcher is a major threat in the passing game. The sixth-year receiver has 952 yards, 60 catches and eight touchdowns, placing him among the national leaders in each category. He had a four-game run of 100-yard performances, including 224 yards against Louisville, before a quieter game against SMU. He now faces Clemson cornerback Ashton Hampton, who has allowed four receptions for 49 yards over the past three games.