SYRACUSE — Long third downs became a theme for the Clemson offense on a trip up to Syracuse. Normally, that’s a recipe for offensive struggles but an improvised masterclass from quarterback Cade Klubnik and wide receiver Tyler Brown made it look planned.

It wasn’t though, and that’s what made it most impressive and a sign for optimism in the future. Brown delivered his best performance as a Tiger with nine catches for 153yards. He flashed on a seam route for a 47-yard catch, but a majority of his other grabs came on the move.

Following the game, Klubnik talked about how this came to fruition, and how Brown just appeared when necessary.

“That was probably the highlight of the game, just making third downs and finding Tyler. Not necessarily I’m looking for him, but he did a great job…he did a great job of just making plays and just really proud of him for that” Klubnik said.

Mobility was also key in these moments as Klubnik evaded pressure often and it creates these opportunities with Brown as well as times where he tucked it and ran.

There’s no forcing with Klubnik finding Brown in these moments, and that’s what makes it special. That’s two straight weeks where Klubnik has commanded this offense to a strong outing and Brown is a big beneficiary of it.

Brown’s been working on this chemistry with his quarterback in practice and it’s quickly showing on the field.

“That definitely comes from the practice we put in. We work on that scramble drill so you know, we just have a smart QB. When that time clock goes off, he’ll sprint out, I’m gonna sprint out with him. Whatever I can do to help QB succeed,” Brown said.

Succeed he did with 263 passing yard and two touchdowns. The best part of that was no turnovers on the day. Klubnik and Brown are proving to be an impressive duo, and it doesn’t matter if it’s defended well either.