Clemson Pulls Off Impressive Upset Against No. 22 North Carolina
In a stunning victory, Clemson defeated No. 22 North Carolina with a final score of 31-20. The game showcased Clemson’s outstanding performance on both offense and defense, marking their third consecutive win and second triumph over a ranked opponent in recent weeks.
Quarterback Cade Klubnik played a crucial role in Clemson’s success, throwing for 219 yards and a touchdown. Meanwhile, Clemson’s defense put on an impressive display, holding North Carolina’s high-scoring offense to their lowest point total of the season.
The atmosphere in Clemson was electric as excited fans, mainly students, rushed onto the field twice before the game’s conclusion. While this resulted in an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty, it did not dampen the celebratory mood as Clemson closed out their final home game of the season with a well-deserved victory.
At the start of the game, North Carolina seemed poised to reach their average of 40 points per game. They gained an impressive 198 yards in the first quarter alone. However, their promising start was marred by turnovers, with tailback Omarion Hampton fumbling the ball twice near the goal line, abruptly ending potential scoring drives.
Drake Maye, the reigning ACC player of the year, had a strong opening quarter, completing five of nine passes for 120 yards. However, for the rest of the game, Maye struggled to find his rhythm, only managing 11 completions on 27 attempts for 89 yards and throwing an interception. This loss marks North Carolina’s sixth consecutive defeat against Clemson.
Clemson’s offense showcased their firepower with Will Shipley rushing for an impressive 126 yards and scoring a 33-yard touchdown. Phil Mafah also contributed to Clemson’s lead with a 3-yard touchdown run, pushing their advantage to 28-14 in the third quarter.
The game took a decisive turn on Hampton’s second fumble, as he was on the verge of completing a 64-yard scoring run. Cornerback Nate Wiggins, who is considered a potential first-round pick in the NFL draft, caught up with Hampton, forced a fumble, and the ball rolled out of bounds for a touchback. Seizing the opportunity, Clemson embarked on a 14-play scoring drive, culminating in Klubnik’s 3-yard touchdown pass to tight end Jake Briningstool, leveling the score at 7-all.
From that point on, Clemson’s defense tightened their grip on the game, allowing North Carolina to gain a mere 55 yards in the second quarter. Clemson seized the lead just before halftime with an 11-play scoring drive. Klubnik’s touchdown pass to Briningstool initially appeared to be an interception, but a roughing the passer call on linebacker Cedric Gray nullified the interception. Klubnik then managed to stretch the ball across the goal line with just 3 seconds left, securing a touchdown. The score stood after review, putting Clemson ahead 14-7.
Omarion Hampton, North Carolina’s leading rusher, fought hard and finished the game with 178 yards and two touchdowns, including a remarkable 55-yard run.
Looking ahead, North Carolina will conclude their regular season with a game against rival North Carolina State. On the other hand, Clemson’s regular season will come to an end with a matchup against their rival, South Carolina.
In summary, Clemson’s impressive victory against No. 22 North Carolina highlights their resurgence in recent weeks. Their strong performance on both sides of the ball makes them a formidable force to be reckoned with. As the regular season draws to a close, both teams will undoubtedly reflect on their performance and prepare for their upcoming games.
