Tigers Drop Close Game to Duke, 46-45
Clemson (3-5, 2-4 ACC) amassed 560 yards of total offense but gave up a late touchdown and a two-point conversion with 40 seconds left, falling 46-45 to Duke (5-3, 4-1 ACC) at Memorial Stadium on Saturday.
The Tigers led by seven points following a 75-yard touchdown catch-and-run by T.J. Clemson's defense forced a punt on Duke’s next possession, but the Tigers had to punt the ball back with 5:19 remaining, leaving Duke pinned at their own six-yard line.
Over the following 4:39, the Blue Devils executed a 94-yard drive that included two critical fourth-down conversions and a successful two-point conversion to seize the lead.
Clemson’s chance at a game-winning drive stalled, giving the Blue Devils the victory.
Key Player Performances
- Cade Klubnik completed 27 of 36 passes for 385 yards and two touchdowns.
- Antonio Williams led with 142 receiving yards on 10 catches and scored twice – once receiving and once rushing.
- Adam Randall rushed for 89 yards and added two touchdowns.
- Defensively, Peter Woods and Jahiem Lawson each recorded a sack.
- Linebacker Sammy Brown led with 10 tackles, followed by Khalil Barnes with nine.
Game Highlights
Duke initially took a 7-0 lead on their first drive when quarterback Darien Mensah threw a 19-yard touchdown pass to Que’Sean Brown with 10:08 remaining in the opening quarter.
“The Blue Devils drove 94 yards on 11 plays over the next 4:39, including two critical fourth-down conversions and a two-point conversion, to take the lead.”
Despite Clemson’s productive offense, the late-game defensive stands by Duke ultimately decided the contest.
Author’s summary: A hard-fought battle saw Clemson’s powerful offense fall just short as Duke secured a dramatic late victory with two key fourth-down conversions and a two-point conversion.