__Clemson, S.C.__ – Clemson University secured their spot in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Championship Game with a dominant 41-10 victory over Syracuse University on Saturday at Death Valley.
The Tigers, ranked No. 8 in the College Football Playoff rankings, came out firing on all cylinders. Quarterback DJ Uiagalelei threw for 241 yards and two touchdowns, while running back Will Shipley rushed for 119 yards and a touchdown.
Clemson’s defense was equally impressive, holding the Orange to just 193 total yards and forcing two turnovers. Defensive end Xavier Thomas recorded two sacks, while linebacker Barrett Carter had eight tackles and an interception.
Syracuse, who entered the game with a 6-5 record, struggled to keep pace with Clemson’s high-powered offense. Quarterback Garrett Shrader threw for 125 yards with no touchdowns and an interception.
The Orange defense also had their hands full, surrendering 416 yards to the Tigers.
Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney praised his team’s performance, saying, “I thought we played really well in all three phases of the game. We were efficient on offense, stout on defense, and made some big plays in the special teams game.”
Syracuse head coach Dino Babers acknowledged the challenge of facing Clemson, stating, “They’re a great football team. We knew it was going to be a tough game, and they played better than we did. We have to learn from this and move on.”
Clemson will face the winner of the North Carolina-Georgia Tech game in the ACC Championship Game on December 3rd at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina.
The Orange will finish their season with a home game against Boston College on November 25th.
