Clemson's Lawrence placed in concussion protocol after blow to head

Clemson quarterback Trevor Lawrence exited his first career start on Saturday after taking a shot to the head in the second quarter against Syracuse and didn't return.

Tigers co-offensive coordinator Tony Elliott said after the game that Lawrence was placed in concussion protocol, but was "doing pretty well" in the second half, per Charleston Post and Courier's Gene Sapakoff. The team has yet to announce an official diagnosis.

Lawrence, the No. 2 overall recruit in the 2018 class, was named the Tigers' new starter earlier in the week. He replaced Kelly Bryant, who then transferred out of the program.

With Lawrence unavailable, Clemson turned to freshman Chase Brice at quarterback. The Tigers trailed Syracuse 16-7 at halftime, but rallied late to win 27-23 and stay unbeaten.

Lawrence threw for 600 yards with nine touchdowns and two interceptions over the first four games of the season. He came off the bench in all of those contests.