Clemson Tigers Dominate NC State Wolfpack in a 59-35 Victory
Clemson, SC – The Clemson Tigers showcased their offensive prowess and defensive resilience in a commanding 59-35 victory over the NC State Wolfpack at Memorial Stadium on September 21, 2024. This win marked Clemson’s 800th all-time victory, making them the first ACC team to reach this milestone.
First Quarter: Explosive Start
Clemson set the tone early, scoring four touchdowns in the first quarter alone. Quarterback Cade Klubnik ignited the offense with a 55-yard touchdown run, followed by a 31-yard touchdown pass to Antonio Williams . Klubnik continued to shine, connecting with Williams again for a 2-yard touchdown pass. Running back Phil Mafah capped off the quarter with a 38-yard touchdown run, giving Clemson a 28-0 lead .
Second Quarter: Maintaining Momentum
The Tigers continued their dominance in the second quarter. NC State managed to get on the board with a 5-yard touchdown pass from CJ Bailey to Justin Waters . However, Clemson responded swiftly with a touchdown run by Cole Turner and another by Jay Haynes (https://clemsontigers.com/clemson-defeats-nc-state-59-35/). A 20-yard field goal by Nathan Hauser extended Clemson’s lead to 45-7 at halftime .
Third Quarter: Consistent Pressure
Clemson’s offense didn’t let up in the third quarter. Klubnik threw a 4-yard touchdown pass to Adam Randall, further solidifying their lead. NC State’s Kendrick Raphael managed a 10-yard touchdown run, but it was clear the Wolfpack were struggling to keep up .
Fourth Quarter: NC State’s Late Surge
In the final quarter, NC State showed some fight, scoring three touchdowns. Harrison Smothers, Demie Sumo-Karngbaye, and Lex Thomas each found the end zone .
Key Players and Stats
• Cade Klubnik: 209 passing yards, 3 passing touchdowns, 70 rushing yards, 1 rushing touchdown .
• Phil Mafah: 107 rushing yards, 1 rushing touchdown
* Antonio Williams: 69 receiving yards, 2 receiving touchdowns
* CJ Bailey (NC State): 204 passing yards, 1 passing touchdown •
* Kendrick Raphael (NC State): 94 rushing yards, 1 rushing touchdown
Coaches’ and Analysts’ Comments
Dabo Swinney, Clemson’s head coach, was elated with the team’s performance and the historic win: “It was really cool to be a part of the 800th win. That’s a pretty cool moment. It was a great way for us to start conference play. I see us building momentum. Momentum is a powerful thing. It leads to confidence and belief”
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Greg McElroy, ESPN analyst, critiqued NC State’s defense during the game: “The way their defense is playing, man, this is completely unrecognizable of a Dave Doeren-coached team”
Game Analysis
Clemson’s victory was a testament to their balanced attack and opportunistic defense.
The Tigers capitalized on NC State’s mistakes, forcing three turnovers and limiting the Wolfpack to just 50 rushing yards through three quarters…Clemson’s offense was efficient, scoring on their first four possessions and setting a record with 28 first-quarter points..This win not only boosts Clemson’s confidence as they begin ACC play but also solidifies their position as a formidable force in college football. With performances like this, the Tigers are poised for a successful season ahead.
