Two ACC rivals will begin conference play on New Year’s Eve as the Syracuse Orange host the Clemson Tigers on Wednesday afternoon.
Both teams have played solid defense and don’t push the pace, which is why my Clemson vs. Syracuse predictions are taking the Under.
Keep reading for a full breakdown of this afternoon’s matchup in my free college basketball picks for December 31.
Clemson vs Syracuse prediction
Clemson vs Syracuse best bet: Under 141.5 (-110)
The Syracuse Orange have been putting up big numbers on offense over the last couple weeks, but that may be more about the level of competition than how much firepower they really have.
Between the Mercyhurst Lakers, Northeastern Huskies, and Stonehill Skyhawks, the Orange hasn’t exactly been playing tournament-level competition during their current three-game winning streak.
The Clemson Tigers will represent a huge step up in competition on the defensive side.
The Tigers rank 36th in the nation in defensive rating according to KenPom, and are holding opponents to a staggeringly low 27.3% from 3-point range. That number in particular could give Syracuse trouble, as the Orange are shooting just 30.8% from beyond the arc.
Meanwhile, Clemson has been playing low-scoring basketball as of late.
In their last four games, the Tigers haven’t scored or allowed more than 70 points in any of those contests. That’s led to the Under hitting in all four of those games.
These are two teams who like to play at a more deliberate pace, particularly Clemson, who rank as one of the slower teams in college basketball this year.
Between the Tigers slowing the game down and the likely offensive struggles for Syracuse, I’m taking the Under here.
Clemson vs Syracuse same-game parlay
Along with the Under, I’m also taking Clemson to win outright and in the first half as well.
Clemson has been the most impressive team in non-conference play, and even with this game taking place in Syracuse, I like the Tigers to come out on top.
Clemson vs Syracuse SGP
- Under 141.5
- Clemson moneyline
- Clemson moneyline 1H
Clemson vs Syracuse odds
- Spread: Clemson +1 | Syracuse -1
- Moneyline: Clemson -105 | Syracuse -115
- Over/Under: Over 141.5 | Under 141.5
Clemson vs Syracuse betting trend to know
The Under is 4-0 in Clemson’s last four games overall. Find more college basketball betting trends for Clemson vs. Syracuse.
How to watch Clemson vs Syracuse
| Location | JMA Wireless Dome, Syracuse, NY |
| Date | Wednesday, December 31, 2025 |
| Tip-off | 2:00 p.m. ET |
| TV | ESPN2 |
Clemson vs Syracuse key injuries
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
