PITTSBURGH — In a thrilling finish, Cade Klubnick burst through the defense for a 50-yard touchdown run with just 1:16 left on the clock, leading No. 17 Clemson to a 24-20 victory over Pittsburgh on Saturday.
The Tigers, now with an 8-2 record and 7-1 in the ACC, had struggled to gain yardage on the ground throughout the game. However, the junior quarterback took matters into his own hands, evading multiple defenders to keep Clemson’s slim hopes of making it to the ACC championship game alive.
Klubnick’s performance included impressive statistics, totaling 288 passing yards with two touchdown throws and adding 41 rushing yards. The decisive moment came shortly after the Panthers regained the lead with a 47-yard field goal from Ben Sauls, leaving Klubnick to respond quickly.
Antonio Williams played a crucial role for the Tigers, catching 13 passes that amassed 149 yards along with two touchdowns. For Clemson to qualify for the ACC title match in Charlotte on December 7, they will need No. 12 Miami to lose one of its last two games or No. 14 SMU to lose both of its remaining games.
Pittsburgh’s Nate Yarnell stepped in for the injured Eli Holstein and delivered a commendable performance with 350 passing yards. He connected with Gavin Bartholomew for a touchdown that tied the game with 7:05 remaining. Unfortunately for the Panthers, Yarnell’s final pass attempt was intercepted by Clemson’s Khalil Barnes right as the clock ran out.
Desmond Reid was a standout player for Pittsburgh, racking up 176 rushing yards. The Panthers (7-3, 3-3) outgained Clemson overall, totaling 438 yards to Clemson’s 346. Although they appeared dominant in the second half, errors in execution hindered their efforts. A series of pre-snap penalties led to missed opportunities, particularly in a first-and-goal situation that ended with a shorter field goal attempt rather than a touchdown.
Takeaways from the matchup highlight that while Clemson may not be the powerhouse they once were, Klubnick’s remarkable run was a defining moment that allowed the Tigers to clinch victory on a day when they struggled offensively, managing only 8 rushing yards until the last drive.
Conversely, Pittsburgh showcased determination in their gameplay, although it fell short, marking their third consecutive loss after a promising 7-0 start.
Poll implications suggest that Clemson may not see a significant rise in their rankings due to their lackluster second-half performance against the Panthers.
Looking ahead, Clemson will prepare to host The Citadel next Saturday, while Pittsburgh will head to No. 22 Louisville for their next challenge.
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