Syracuse vs. Clemson: Changes in the secondary highlight depth chart

We’re used to minimal changes on the Syracuse Orange depth chart at this point. And this week is no different. SU’s two-deep for Saturday’s game against the Clemson Tigers came out today with minimal changes.

As Syracuse.com’s Stephen Bailey calls out there, the two key differences are Devin Butler’s inclusion (technically never left) and Cordell Hudson’s exclusion. Both players have missed the past two games with undisclosed injuries suffered during or after the Wake Forest loss. Butler had been used occasionally in the passing game, while Hudson was starting at cornerback before getting hurt. In Hudson’s absence, Carl Jones Jr. and Christopher Fredrick have filled the role fairly well, though depth is a continual concern in the secondary.

For those worried about Hudson joining the list of defensive backs out for the year, Dino Babers said today that it was not the case. That doesn’t guarantee he returns, mind you. But it’s indicative of Hudson needing more time before he can return.

Additional changes occurred further down the depth chart compared to the Boston College game. Cody Conway is now the clear starter at left tackle, Scoop Bradshaw has been switched from safety to cornerback, and Evan Foster is listed as Rodney Williams’s backup at free safety (instead of Chauncey Scissum). Reserve linebacker Shyheim Cullen, who’s made an impact on special teams throughout the year, moves into the second kick return spot as well.

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