THE GOOD
Clemson’s Defense Took Complete Control
This was the Tigers’ most physical, disruptive defensive performance of the season. Clemson shut down the run, consistently won at the line of scrimmage, and unleashed a relentless pass rush that dictated the final 30 minutes.
The secondary played with confidence and aggression, breaking up pass after pass and closing the game with a walk-off interception returned for a touchdown. Every level of the defense made impact plays, but the front seven was especially dominant — collapsing pockets, forcing hurried throws, and controlling the tempo of the game.
Adam Randall Became the Offense’s Engine
Randall delivered the breakout game Clemson has been waiting for. His 100-plus yards came the hard way — inside runs, patient cuts, and crucial chain-moving carries. When Clemson needed answers late, it turned to him repeatedly and he delivered. His physical finish to the game set the tone for the entire offense.
Antonio Williams’ Volume and Reliability
Williams didn’t score, but he was Cade Klubnik’s most trusted weapon all afternoon. He consistently separated underneath, converted key third downs, and extended drives. His ability to find soft spots kept Clemson in rhythm even when explosive plays weren’t available.
Owning the Football
Clemson dominated time of possession and snapped nearly 80 plays. The offense controlled the pace, leaned on the ground game, and kept its defense fresh for the decisive second half. It wasn’t flashy — it was grown-man, win-the-rivalry football.
THE BAD
Red-Zone Finishing
Clemson moved the ball between the 20s but struggled to finish drives. Long, methodical possessions ended in field goals or came up empty, putting pressure on the defense to keep the momentum. The Tigers left points on the board, especially early.
Passing Game Consistency
Cade Klubnik made several strong throws, spread the ball around well, and kept drives alive — but the passing game still struggled to turn yards into touchdowns. Drops, misfires and stalled red-zone sequences kept the offense from putting the game away sooner.
A Flat Third Quarter
Clemson started the second half quietly on offense, punting multiple times and losing the rhythm it had built before halftime. The defense kept the Tigers in control, but the offense missed an opportunity to deliver a knockout punch earlier.
THE UGLY
Injuries and Wear Late in the Season
The Tigers once again played without multiple key contributors and picked up more bumps along the way. Depth has held strong, but late-season wear showed at times with rotations strained and certain position groups logging heavy snap counts.
Self-Inflicted Offensive Lulls
Clemson’s biggest opponent for stretches of the game was itself. Missed chances, stalled drives, and execution errors — especially in plus territory — created unnecessary pressure. The Tigers overcame it, but against tougher postseason competition those moments can swing games.
FINAL THOUGHT
Clemson didn’t play a perfect game — but it played a mature one.
The defense dominated, Adam Randall arrived as a true feature back, and the offense controlled the ball long enough to let the Tigers’ physicality and depth take over.
This was Clemson football winning a rivalry the way Clemson football is built to win it.