After weeks of frustration, Clemson looked like Clemson again. A 38–10 rout of North Carolina in Chapel Hill wasn’t just a win — it was a statement. From Cade Klubnik’s command to a suffocating defensive performance, the Tigers checked every box. Here’s how each unit graded out.
Offense: A
Clemson’s offense finally found rhythm — and swagger. Cade Klubnik completed 22 of 24 passes for 254 yards and four touchdowns, spreading the ball to 11 different receivers. The opening-drive trick play — Antonio Williams’ 75-yard touchdown pass to T.J. Moore — set the tone for a dominant first half that saw the Tigers put up 35 points and over 350 total yards before the break.
Christian Bentancur and Adam Randall combined for four receiving touchdowns, while the offensive line kept Klubnik clean for most of the day. The run game didn’t pile up big numbers (just 89 rushing yards), but it kept UNC honest. This was Garrett Riley’s offense operating with rhythm, tempo, and trust.
Grade: A
Defense: A+
Tom Allen’s defense smothered Bill Belichick’s Tar Heels from start to finish. UNC managed just 229 total yards and didn’t find the end zone until the fourth quarter when the game was long decided.
Clemson forced five three-and-outs, held UNC to 1-of-10 on third down, and allowed just 54 rushing yards on 17 attempts. The pass rush was disciplined, the coverage was sticky, and the tackling crisp. Stephiylan Green’s sack and Avieon Terrell’s forced fumble highlighted a complete, physical performance from a defense that looked rejuvenated and confident.
Grade: A+
Special Teams: B+
Nolan Hauser hit his lone field goal (27 yards) and went 5-for-5 on PATs, while punter Jack Smith pinned UNC inside the 20 twice. Kick coverage was sharp, and Bryant Wesco Jr. added a 17-yard punt return to spark field position.
A first-half fumble on a late return opportunity and one near-missed exchange prevent a perfect score, but this was easily Clemson’s cleanest special teams effort of the season.
Grade: B+
Coaching: A
After taking accountability all week, Dabo Swinney delivered one of his best-prepared teams in recent memory. The Tigers played loose, aggressive, and confident — a reflection of a staff that clearly hit reset. Offensive coordinator Garrett Riley dialed up creative looks, including an opening play straight out of the bag of tricks, while defensive coordinator Tom Allen’s group set the tone early with disciplined pressure and gap control.
More importantly, Clemson showed emotional maturity — responding to adversity with composure and consistency. That’s culture. That’s coaching.
Grade: A
Overall: A
This wasn’t just a win — it was a course correction. Clemson executed, played fast, and dominated every phase of the game. If the Tigers can bottle this version of themselves, the season outlook just changed.