Tigers Drop Back-And-Forth Game to Duke, 46-45
Clemson (3-5, 2-4 ACC) amassed 560 yards of total offense but gave up a touchdown and a two-point conversion with 40 seconds remaining, falling 46-45 to Duke (5-3, 4-1 ACC) at Memorial Stadium on Saturday.
Clemson led by seven points after a 75-yard catch-and-run touchdown by T.J. The Tigers forced a punt on the next drive but later punted back with 5:19 left, pinning Duke at their own six-yard line.
Duke then drove 94 yards on 11 plays in 4:39, converting two crucial fourth downs and completing a two-point conversion to take the lead. Clemson’s attempt at a game-winning drive ultimately stalled, securing the Blue Devils' 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, scoring two touchdowns—one receiving and one rushing.
- Adam Randall rushed for 89 yards and scored two touchdowns.
Defensive Highlights
- Peter Woods and Jahiem Lawson each recorded a sack.
- Linebacker Sammy Brown led with 10 tackles, followed by Khalil Barnes with nine.
Game Opening
Duke jumped to a 7-0 lead on its first possession when quarterback Darien Mensah connected with Que’Sean Brown on a 19-yard touchdown pass with 10:08 on the clock.
Clemson’s high offensive output was not enough to overcome Duke’s late-game resilience and key plays.
Author's summary: Clemson's potent offense fell short as Duke's late surge, including critical fourth-down conversions, clinched a thrilling 46-45 victory.