The Clemson football season officially ended today. In the first half, Texas dominated the Tigers, scoring 28 points — the highest total allowed all season — compared to Clemson's 10. The Tigers fought back in the second half but ultimately came up short 38-24.
The rushing game was the difference tonight. With Phil Mafah not completely healthy, Texas put the clamps on Clemson, allowing only 76 yards on the ground. Later in the second half, it really came back to haunt Clemson. With 10:48 left on the clock, Clemson started a 10-play drive that came down to a fourth and goal, but the Tigers couldn't punch the ball into the endzone.
Even though there were nearly seven and a half minutes left, it felt all but over. That's because Clemson's run defense was terrible. The Horns ran at will against the Tigers' front seven, gaining 292 yards. Every Texas rushing touchdown came on a run of 16 yards or more. The Longhorns had six rushing plays of 15 yards or more and two more over 10 yards.
Clemson didn't end the game without a fight, outscoring Texas in the second half and holding them to 10 points. Cade Klubnik put on a show for what could be his final game if he were to choose to declare for the draft. He put up 336 yards on a Texas defense known for being stingy through the air, including three touchdowns. Before tonight, the Longhorns allowed only four passing touchdowns all season, but Clemson nearly doubled their season total.
As Clemson heads home to start the offseason, Texas will advance to play Arizona State in the Peach Bowl.