Syracuse Recap Podcast

The healing begins after dropping a tough one to a .500 team, the first non-victorious road outcome since 2014.

It’s possible we’ve seen the ceiling for this offense. With Kelly Bryant saddled with a re-aggravated ankle injury, and an uncertain timeline on concussion recovery, the Clemson Tigers now find themselves fighting for their ACC title chances.

Last season, when Clemson lost to Pitt, the Tigers had one remaining game at home vs. Wake Forest to secure the ACC Atlantic. This year, they’ll face 3 remaining league games, all against teams in the upper half of the conference. To say nothing of pinning our playoff hopes to a showdown with the Coastal champion, this is far from a gimme.

Thankfully, the Open Date will provide a chance for tired legs to recuperate, and for coaches to eliminate mistakes, but it’s safe to say the margin for error is gone. On offense, ScElliott may find new wrinkles, capable playmakers (ahem, Deon Cain) may emerge as elite contributors, and a running back might pick up a blitz. On defense, the rest may be all that’s necessary to bounce back from a 27 point showing. If neither of these things come to pass, it’s difficult seeing this team return for a third CFP berth.

That said, Clemson fans should feel confident in the talent, coaching, and experience recovering focus after a loss. A night game at home vs. Georgia Tech may be just what the Dr. ordered. And by Dr. I don’t mean that creep, Larry Culpepper.

Enjoy the show.

Time Marks:

• 1:37 - Reliving the Nightmare - The Defense Caught Daydreaming
• 28:00 - Offensive Woes - The Ship Goes Down with its Captain
• 53:41 - Not-So-Special Special Teams
• 1:00:46 - Around College Football and Clemson's Playoff Chances

What's a Pawcast?

It's a weekly podcast, hosted by three CU alumni — Ben, Cody, and Nick — who discuss Clemson Tigers athletics from a fan's perspective, and try to predict the future. Because we're far from experts, we farm out that part of the show. Past and future guests include Shakin' the Southland writers, SB Nation CFB media personalities, former Clemson players & coaches, and a mixed bag of opponent school podcasters, fans, and radio guys.

To check out past shows, visit our Soundcloud page, where you can also subscribe to stream future podcasts. Come for the banter and hastily-formed takes, stay for the Gamecock jokes and microbrew tips. We also post a variety of links on our Twitter and Facebook pages. Check back here at STS for future shows, or subscribe within your favorite podcast app.

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