The atmosphere at Memorial Stadium was electric as the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC) clashed with Clemson University in a thrilling ACC football game on Saturday, November 18, 2023. Both teams entered the game riding high after recent victories and were looking to continue their winning momentum.
Game Overview
The game kicked off with UNC taking an early lead with D. Maye’s stunning pass to J. Jones for a 33-yard touchdown. However, Clemson Tigers quickly clawed their way back into the game with an impressive touchdown in the second quarter. Nate Wiggins stripped the UNC running back on the 1-yard line for a touchback, and Clemson’s offense went 80 yards in 14 plays with Cade Klubnik throwing a 3-yard TD pass to Jake Briningstool. Tigers were on fire in the red zone during the game. Out of 7 attempts in this critical area, they successfully scored on 4 drives, earning a total of 24 points.
24 points in Red Zone
Dabo Swinney
“We have been better in the red zone when we have won the turnover margin…Just proud of them, they have gotten better and they are learning how to finish”
As the game progressed, Clemson’s defense got better. They sacked Drake Maye four times and three times in the first half alone. This disrupted the Tar Heels’ offense and allowed the Tigers to take control of the game. UNC’s defense, on the other hand, struggled to contain Clemson’s potent rushing attack led by Will Shipley and Phil Mafah.
“WOW! I guess we just need to get Will a little mad,” said Klubnik “I’m just proud of him and Phil and they guys up front.”
Cade Klubnik
In the end, Clemson emerged victorious with a final score of 31-20. The Tigers’ defense proved to be a critical factor in their win as they contained UNC’s offense for most of the game and limited them to just 283 total yards. Meanwhile, Clemson’s offense was firing on all cylinders with Cade Klubnik throwing for 219 yards and 1 touchdown. Will Shipley also had a standout performance with 126 rushing yards and a touchdown.
Key Players
The real star of the game was Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik. He completed 21 out of 34 passes(66% completion), throwing for 219 yards and 1 passing/1 rushing touchdown. Klubnik’s performance was crucial in leading the Tigers to victory.
“That is the worst play that turned out good ever,” said Swinney “We told him we can not run this ball, we have to throw this ball, we got to get the point here. He made it by that much.”
Dabo Swinney
On the defensive side, cornerback Nate Wiggins had a standout performance with a strip fumble, 7 tackles, and an interception. Linebacker Jeremiah Trotter Jr. also played a key role in containing UNC’s offense with 11 tackles and 1 sack.
For UNC, quarterback Drake Maye had a decent game with 16 out of 36 passes completed for 209 yards, a touchdown, and an interception. Running back Omarion Hampton also had a solid performance with 19 carries for 178 rushing yards and 2 touchdowns.
Looking Ahead
With this win, Clemson improves to a record of 7-4 heading into Rivalry Week against South Carolina. The Tigers will look to continue their strong defensive performance and maintain their momentum on offense. Clemson lost the game against South Carolina last year and will be looking to redeem themselves this year.
Meanwhile, UNC will aim to bounce back in their final game against NC State. The Tar Heels have had a disappointing season, currently standing at a 5-6 record. However, they still have a chance to finish the season on a positive note with a win against their in-state rival.
Impact on Rankings
Clemson’s win against UNC will likely have a positive impact on their rankings. The Tigers are hoping to crack the Top 25 after being unranked since early in the season. A win against South Carolina could solidify their spot and potentially move them up in the rankings.
In conclusion, Clemson’s dominant performance against UNC sets them up for a strong finish to the season. With their defense clicking and offensive stars like Cade Klubnik and Will Shipley leading the way, the Tigers have a chance to make a statement in their final game.
