Tigers Drop Back-And-Forth Game to Duke, 46-45
Clemson (3-5, 2-4 ACC) amassed 560 yards of total offense but conceded a touchdown and two-point conversion with 40 seconds remaining, resulting in a 46-45 loss to Duke (5-3, 4-1 ACC) at Memorial Stadium on Saturday.
The Tigers held a seven-point lead after a 75-yard catch-and-run touchdown by T.J. Clemson forced a punt on Duke’s next drive but eventually punted back with 5:19 remaining, pinning Duke on their own six-yard line.
Duke responded with a 94-yard drive over 11 plays in 4:39, which included two crucial fourth-down conversions and a successful two-point conversion to take the lead. Clemson’s final attempt at a game-winning drive faltered, securing the Blue Devils’ victory.
Notable 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 two touchdowns (one receiving, one rushing).
- Adam Randall rushed for 89 yards and scored two touchdowns.
- Peter Woods and Jahiem Lawson each recorded a sack on defense.
- Linebacker Sammy Brown led with 10 tackles, followed closely by Khalil Barnes with nine.
Game Highlights
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 left in the first quarter.
The close game featured strong offensive drives, decisive plays on fourth downs, and a last-minute comeback by Duke to clinch the win.
Author's summary: Clemson showcased a strong offensive effort but a late Duke surge, including key fourth-down conversions and a two-point conversion, sealed a narrow 46-45 victory.