Players of the Game: Syracuse at Clemson

Offense: Nick Schuessler, #12, QB, Grad Student: After Deshaun Watson suffered a bruised shoulder up 30-0 on the Orangemen (I still call them that), Nick came in and played exceptionally well while splitting time with Kelly Bryant for most of the second half. Nick led the team in passing yards with 177 and tied Deshaun’s 2 passing TDs. While Deshaun could’ve played if he was needed, it was nice to let him rest and get some quality reps from Nick. Hopefully we’ll get to see him in some more blowout wins this season.

Defense: Ben Boulware, #10, LB, Senior: Boulware was an absolute savage on Saturday and was a huge role in Clemson getting the shutout on Saturday. He tied Jadar Johnson for team leader in total tackles, with seven each. Ben had one of the big plays of the day when he suplexed Dontae Strickland of Syracuse. He received a penalty on the play, which is absurd, but the tackle was so awesome that it was worth it. It was a tough call between Ben or Jadar as Defensive Player of the Game, but Ben’s suplex won it for him this week.

Special Teams: Michael Batson, #96, P, RS Freshman: It was kind of a meh day on Special Teams for the Tigers, but Batson did look impressive with a 4th quarter punt of 46 yards. In a game that saw Clemson play 85 players, it was nice to see some young guys show off their stuff. With Andy Teasdall playing his final season in Tiger Town, it’s nice to know what Batson can do if he gets the nod at punter next season.

Moment of the Game: Boulware’s suplex looked like an early favorite, but a moment in the fourth quarter ended up being the best part of the game. With less than 8 minutes left in the 4th quarter, a Syracuse pass was deflected and batted around 4-5 times before finally landing in RS Freshman Safety Tanner Muse’s arms. Muse then turned on the jets and ran the ball back for a 64 yard touchdown to put the Tigers up 54-0. Muse’s touchdown was a great way to cap off a great day for the Tigers at Death Valley.