For a team that entered Chapel Hill looking to prove it still belonged among the ACC’s elite, Clemson delivered a statement in the first 30 minutes. Cade Klubnik completed an astonishing 22 of 24 passes for 270 yards and four touchdowns, leading the Tigers to a 35–3 halftime advantage over North Carolina.
The offensive outburst began on the very first play from scrimmage, when Antonio Williams hit T.J. Moore for a 75-yard touchdown pass on a trick play. From there, Klubnik took over—connecting twice with Adam Randall for scores and twice more with tight end Christian Bentancur, including an 8-yard strike late in the second quarter that capped Clemson’s fifth touchdown drive of the half.
The Tigers racked up 393 total yards of offense on just 37 plays, averaging an eye-popping 10.6 yards per snap, while holding the ball for 17 minutes in the opening half.
UNC’s Offense Stalled Under Pressure
Bill Belichick’s Tar Heels looked overwhelmed against a Clemson defense that suffocated every attempt at rhythm. UNC quarterback Max Johnson completed just nine of 16 passes for 52 yards and took a sack from Stephiylan Green as North Carolina mustered only 64 total yards and four first downs in the half.
Clemson’s front seven dominated the trenches, forcing four three-and-outs and holding UNC to 1.2 yards per rush. Linebacker Sammy Brown and safety Tyler Venables each recorded key tackles to stall early Tar Heel drives, while the secondary broke up multiple passes to shut down any chance of momentum.
Cade Klubnik’s Best Half Yet
Klubnik looked poised and confident from the start, completing his first 17 passes and spreading the ball around to nine different receivers. His efficiency—91.6% completions and a 240.4 passer rating—marked perhaps the sharpest half of his Clemson career.
The senior quarterback’s connection with Bentancur and Randall gave the Tigers balance and explosiveness, while freshman running back Gideon Davidson chipped in 18 rushing yards and consistent pass protection.
Halftime Outlook:
Clemson heads into the locker room with complete control, leading 35–3, and looking every bit like the team many expected to compete for the ACC crown. If the second half mirrors the first, this could be the Tigers’ most complete performance of the season—and a turning point in their 2025 campaign.