Clemson’s Offensive Explosion Against Appalachian State
In a dazzling display of offensive prowess, the Clemson Tigers routed the Appalachian State Mountaineers 66-20 on September 7, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. This game marked a significant turnaround for Clemson, who had struggled offensively in their previous outing against Georgia.
Key Stats
◦ Total Yards: 712
◦ Passing Yards: 460
◦ Rushing Yards: 252
• First Downs: 28
• Yards Per Play: 9.8
• Time of Possession: 31:55
Key Players
• Cade Klubnik: The junior quarterback had a career night, completing 24 of 26 passes for 378 yards and five touchdowns. He also added two rushing touchdowns, making him the first FBS player in 25 years to achieve five passing touchdowns, two rushing touchdowns, and a 90% completion rate in a single game.
• Phil Mafah: The senior running back rushed for 118 yards on 10 carries, including an 83-yard touchdown run .
• Bryant Wesco Jr.: The freshman wide receiver caught three passes for 130 yards, including a 76-yard touchdown reception .
• Jake Briningstool: The tight end contributed significantly with 100 receiving yards and two touchdowns .
Key Plays
1 76-yard Touchdown Pass: Less than two minutes into the game, Klubnik connected with Wesco for a 76-yard touchdown, setting the tone for the night.
2 83-yard Touchdown Run: Phil Mafah’s explosive 83-yard touchdown run in the first quarter extended Clemson’s lead to 21-0 .
3 Multiple Touchdown Drives: Clemson scored touchdowns on each of their first eight possessions, showcasing their offensive efficiency .
Offensive Game Plan
Clemson’s offensive coordinator, Garrett Riley, orchestrated a near-perfect game plan. The Tigers utilized a balanced attack, mixing deep passes with powerful runs. Klubnik’s ability to spread the ball around kept Appalachian State’s defense on their heels. The offensive line provided excellent protection, allowing Klubnik to make precise throws and opening lanes for the running game.
Individual Contributions
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Cade Klubnik
: His leadership and accuracy were pivotal.
Klubnik’s quick decision-making and ability to read the defense allowed him to exploit mismatches and find open receivers.
•
Phil Mafah: Mafah’s vision and burst through the line were crucial in establishing the run game, which in turn opened up the passing game.
•
Bryant Wesco Jr.: Wesco’s speed and route-running created big-play opportunities, making him a reliable target for Klubnik.
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Jake Briningstool: His versatility as a tight end provided a safety valve for Klubnik and added another dimension to the passing attack .
Conclusion
Clemson’s offensive explosion against Appalachian State was a statement game, demonstrating their potential and resilience. The Tigers’ balanced and dynamic offense, led by standout performances from Klubnik, Mafah, Wesco, and Briningstool, showcased their ability to dominate and adapt. This game not only boosted their confidence but also set a high standard for the rest of the season.
