Clemson Football Scouting Report: An In-Depth Look at Syracuse

Syracuse runs that up-tempo spread offense. How does that break down opponents and give the Orange an advantage?

You spread the field and make the reads super easy on the quarterback. You’ll see the Orange often run out four wide receiver sets and based on whether Clemson or whatever team is running press or off coverage, Eric Dungey may audible to the patented bubble screen game and take what the defense gives them.

Also the benefit of the spread is you thin out the defense and make it a horizontal game which opens up the running game because there’s a lack of defenders in the box naturally. Plus the up-temp nature just gasses teams. Dino Babers is well known for his intense practice style and we’ve heard stories about players throwing up their guts.

I’ve spoken with several key members of the offense and defense on my weekly sports talk radio show in Syracuse and they’ve confirmed that intensity in practice. While it sucks at the time, they love it because once we get to the Fall the opponents are the ones with the hands on their hips and that makes it all worth it.