Etienne, Clemson defense pace Tigers past Orange in thriller

(WCSC) Clemson overcame an injury to starting quarterback Trevor Lawrence and held Syracuse to just seven points in the second half en route to a 27-23 victory.

The Tigers didn’t take the lead for good until 41 seconds left in the game. Travis Etienne capped off an incredible performance with a two-yard touchdown run. The score was the third of the day for the sophomore back who tallied 203 rushing yards.

The Tigers were forced to go with quarterback Chase Brice in the second half. Lawrence took a shot to the right shoulder/head area near the end of the second quarter. He walked to the locker room just before halftime and did not return.

Brice was 7-of-13 for 83 yards passing. He converted on a crucial 4th down and 6 play to keep the game-winning drive alive. His completion to Tee Higgins picked up the first down and kept the drive alive.

Syracuse led for majority of the second half. Quarterback Eric Dungey put the Orange ahead 23-13 in the fourth quarter on a one-yard touchdown run.

But Etienne quickly answered for Clemson with his second score of the day. His 26-yard scoring rush cut the lead to 23-20.

The Tigers then marched 94-yards in 13 plays to capture the win and stay undefeated at 5-0.

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