Syracuse at Clemson College Football Betting Preview – September 20, 2025
Game Details:
- Date: Saturday, September 20, 2025
- Time: 12:00 PM EST
- Location: Memorial Stadium (Death Valley), Clemson, SC
- TV: ESPN
- Spread: Clemson -17 (-115) MyBookie
- Total: 55 points
- Our Pick: Clemson -17
The Case for Taking Clemson to Cover
While recent history shows Syracuse has kept things competitive against Clemson, we believe this is the spot where the Tigers break through with a decisive win. The Orange managed to lose by just six points in 2022 and three points in 2021, but those Syracuse teams had more fight than this current squad.
Syracuse’s Concerning Trends
The Orange enter this matchup at 2-1, but their record is deceiving. After getting demolished 45-26 by Tennessee in their opener, Syracuse barely survived against UConn, needing 14 fourth-quarter points and overtime for a 27-20 victory. While they bounced back with a dominant 66-24 win over Colgate, that performance came against an overmatched FCS opponent.
Syracuse currently ranks a troubling 123rd nationally in rushing yards per game at just 107.0 yards per contest. Their defense has been equally concerning, allowing 29.7 points per game which ranks 109th in the nation. The Orange have surrendered 439.0 yards per game, placing them 122nd in Division 1.
Clemson Ready to Right the Ship
The Tigers sit at 1-2, but context matters significantly. Their losses came by just seven points to third-ranked LSU and three points to Georgia Tech, who has since climbed to 18th in the AP poll. These aren’t bad losses – they’re quality defeats against strong competition.
Clemson’s defense has been solid, allowing only 19.0 points per game (54th nationally) and 227.3 passing yards per contest. While their offense has struggled, ranking 112th in scoring at 19.3 points per game, they’re due for a breakout performance at home.
Key Matchup Factors
The quarterback battle favors Syracuse on paper, with Steve Angeli leading the FBS in passing yards early this season. However, Clemson’s Cade Klubnik has shown flashes and will be motivated to perform in front of the home crowd after disappointing showings.
Syracuse has performed well in fourth quarters this season, ranking tied for 14th nationally with a +8.0 point differential. However, this game likely won’t be close enough for fourth-quarter heroics to matter.
Against the Spread Analysis
The trends heavily favor Clemson covering here:
- Syracuse is 2-1 ATS this season (depending on closing lines)
- Clemson is 0-3 ATS, creating value as they’re due for a cover
- In games between these teams since 2017, the home team has generally performed better ATS
The Bottom Line
While 17 points seems like a large number, Syracuse’s defensive vulnerabilities and Clemson’s desperation make this the perfect storm for a blowout. The Tigers have too much talent to continue underperforming, especially at home in Death Valley where they’ve historically dominated.
Syracuse’s recent close games against Clemson occurred when both programs were in different situations. This current Orange team lacks the defensive prowess and offensive consistency to hang with a motivated Clemson squad that’s had two weeks to stew over disappointing performances.
Final Prediction: Clemson 38, Syracuse 14
Recommended Bet: Clemson -17 (-115)