Tigers Fall in Close Matchup Against Duke, 46-45
Clemson (3-5, 2-4 ACC) racked up 560 yards of total offense but ultimately fell to Duke (5-3, 4-1 ACC) with a final score of 46-45 at Memorial Stadium on Saturday. Despite holding a seven-point lead late in the game, Clemson allowed a touchdown and a two-point conversion with just 40 seconds remaining.
Game Highlights
- T.J. scored on a 75-yard catch-and-run touchdown that helped Clemson build their late lead.
- The Tigers forced a Duke punt on the next possession but returned the ball with 5:19 left, placing Duke at its own six-yard line.
- Duke responded with a 94-yard drive over 11 plays in 4:39, converting two crucial fourth downs and a two-point conversion to seize the lead.
- Clemson's attempt at a game-winning drive was unsuccessful, allowing Duke to secure the win.
Key Player Performances
Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik completed 27 of 36 passes for 385 yards and two touchdowns. Wide receiver Antonio Williams led the team with 142 receiving yards on 10 catches and scored twice—one receiving and one rushing touchdown. Adam Randall contributed 89 rushing yards and two touchdowns.
Defensive Standouts
Peter Woods and Jahiem Lawson each recorded a sack for Clemson. Linebacker Sammy Brown led the team with 10 tackles, followed by Khalil Barnes with nine.
Early Game Moments
Duke took an early 7-0 lead when quarterback Darien Mensah connected with Que’Sean Brown on a 19-yard touchdown pass with 10:08 remaining in the first quarter.
"The Tigers forced a punt on the next drive, but ultimately punted the ball back with 5:19 left, pinning Duke on its own six-yard line."
"Duke 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."
Summary: Clemson's strong offensive output was not enough to overcome a late Duke comeback fueled by critical conversions and a final touchdown, resulting in a narrow 46-45 defeat.