Clemson traveled to Wake Forest this week, entering the game as 21-point favorites against the 2-3 Demon Deacons. The Tigers had dominated opponents in the first quarter since their game against Georgia, outscoring teams 90-0. However, this trend was disrupted as Wake Forest scored first. Despite that, Clemson managed to rebound and led 28-14 at halftime. The Tigers extended their lead in the second half with three touchdowns while shutting out the Deacons, concluding the game with a 49-14 victory.
Wake Forest began the game by moving the ball effectively, but Clemson’s defense quickly adjusted and forced a punt. Clemson’s initial drive featured an 18-yard reception from T.J. Moore, but failed to produce points as Cade Klubnik struggled with accuracy, leading to a punt from the Tigers. Wake’s second possession also faltered as the Tiger defense clamped down near midfield.
The Deacs eventually broke the scoreless stretch, capitalizing on a drive that culminated in a touchdown, taking a 7-0 lead with 1:32 left in the first quarter. Clemson responded with a strong offensive push, highlighted by a 22-yard touchdown connection from Klubnik to Antonio Williams, tying the game at 7-7. Clemson’s defense began to find their rhythm, forcing an interception and taking the lead 14-7 after a one-yard run by Phil Mafah.
Wake Forest moved the ball well thanks to pass interference penalties but allowed Clemson to intercept another pass. The Tigers capitalized on their possessions, extending their lead to 21-7 with another rushing touchdown from Mafah. Wake responded by narrowing the gap to 21-14 with a touchdown, but Clemson quickly added another score before halftime, heading into the locker room up 28-14.
In the second half, Clemson came out determined, although they initially struggled to establish the run. They eventually found success in the air, resulting in a touchdown from Randall to increase their lead to 35-14. The Clemson defense continued to stifle Wake’s offense, leading to another touchdown after a flashy play involving a pass from Williams.
As the game progressed, supporters of both teams witnessed the Tigers dominate, culminating in a final touchdown by Keith Adams Jr. to set the score at 49-14. Despite a late push by Wake Forest, the Clemson defense held strong, preventing any additional scores.
Clemson’s balanced offensive attack featured over 100 rushing yards from Mafah and over 300 passing yards from Klubnik. In their upcoming matchup, they will host Tony Elliott and the Virginia Cavaliers in Death Valley.