Three takeaways from Syracuse’s 47-21 loss to Clemson

Ken Ruinard-USA TODAY Sports The Syracuse Orange hung with the number one team in the nation, the Clemson Tigers, for three quarters before ultimately losing 47-21. Deep in the third, the Orange only had a 6-point deficit, 27-21, and had an option to go ahead for the first time in the game. Unfortunately the Clemson defense forced a Rex Culpepper fumble, which was picked up and returned for a touchdown, turning the momentum and proved to be the dagger in the game. Even with the loss, we learned a few things.

The Orange defense can hang with the best for a time

Coming off the last few weeks, it was a real question, but the defense looked good. Through the first half, and actually until the…