Syracuse, N.Y. -- After many of Syracuse football's players had filed out of the locker room following its 27-24 upset of No. 2 Clemson on Friday night, Dabo Swinney walked in.

The Clemson head coach, whose team just had its national championship dreams shaken, was there to congratulate the Orange -- akin to the gesture made by ex-Penn State coach Joe Paterno following SU's win over the Nittany Lions in 1987.

"To be knocked down like that, but have the humility to come over and congratulate us when he didn't have to and no one expected him to, I think that says a lot about who he is as a person and a coach," Syracuse senior linebacker Zaire Franklin said. "I thought that was dope as hell."

Swinney sought out SU senior wide receiver Steve Ishmael, who battled Clemson's defensive backs and officials en route to catching six balls for 73 yards and a touchdown. He took a photo with defensive players, and gradually made the rounds over the course of a few minutes.

"It was just humble," Franklin said. "I don't know how to even describe it. That was pretty awesome."

Swinney rushed onto the field after the Orange ran a final victory formation to congratulate Babers as well.

"I'm so happy for you," Swinney is seen saying on the television broadcast.

While the Orange (4-3, 2-1 ACC) has rejuvenated bowl hopes, in addition to a timeless victory, Swinney and Co. may now have to run the table for a chance to repeat as national champions.

Stephen Bailey covers Syracuse football for The Post-Standard/Syracuse.com. You can follow him on Twitter and Facebook. He can also be reached anytime via email or phone (315-427-2168).