AUSTIN, Texas — Clemson’s 2024 football season came to a frustrating end Saturday night in the College Football Playoff, as a defense once known for its dominance faltered in a 38-24 loss to Texas. The Tigers’ inability to stop the run—a season-long issue—reached its breaking point in the semifinal game.
Texas ran for 292 yards, with running backs Jaydon Blue and Quintrevion Wisner combining for 256 yards and four touchdowns on just 29 carries. Blue’s 77-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter sealed the Longhorns’ victory and encapsulated a defensive performance that fell far below Clemson’s lofty standards.
Clemson’s struggles with run defense were evident from the first game of the season, a 34-3 loss to Georgia. The Bulldogs racked up 188 rushing yards, dominating the line of scrimmage and exposing cracks in Clemson’s defensive front. That game set the tone for a season in which the Tigers consistently failed to contain opposing ground attacks.
The situation hit a low point against The Citadel, an FCS opponent. The Bulldogs shocked Clemson with 288 rushing yards, including 196 in the first half alone. Quarterback Peyton Derrick repeatedly gashed the Tigers’ defense with option plays, while running back Logan Billings added to the damage. Clemson improved slightly in the second half, holding The Citadel to 92 rushing yards, but the damage had already been done.
Even in rivalry games, Clemson couldn’t find answers.
Against South Carolina, Gamecocks quarterback LaNorris Sellers rushed for 166 yards and two touchdowns, leading his team to a narrow 17-14 victory. Sellers repeatedly extended drives with his legs, exploiting gaps in Clemson’s front seven.
Saturday’s loss to Texas was the culmination of these ongoing issues. Despite injuries forcing the Longhorns to make adjustments along their offensive line, they dominated the trenches, averaging 6.7 yards per carry in the first half. Texas finished the game with 494 total yards, controlling the tempo and keeping Clemson’s defense on its heels.
“We did not do a good job early. It is dive, pitch, quarterback,” head coach Dabo Swinney said after a similar performance against The Citadel earlier this season. “We had ten guys doing their job, but one guy missing can make the difference.”
Clemson’s defense showed flashes of improvement in the third quarter against Texas. The Tigers held the Longhorns to 3.1 yards per carry and forced punts on key drives, giving their offense an opportunity to close the gap. However, Blue’s explosive 77-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter erased any hope of a comeback.
The numbers tell the story of a defense that fell far short of expectations. Clemson’s run defense ranked No. 74 nationally, allowing an average of 150.5 rushing yards per game. Opponents repeatedly broke off big plays, including Blue’s 77-yard score and long runs by South Carolina and The Citadel. The Tigers’ defense gave up more than 280 rushing yards in two games this season—against The Citadel and Texas—the highest totals they’ve allowed in years.
Several factors contributed to Clemson’s struggles. Injuries to key players, including linebacker Wade Woodaz, hurt the Tigers’ depth and consistency. Poor gap discipline and missed assignments were recurring problems, often leading to explosive plays.
For defensive coordinator Wes Goodwin, the offseason presents an opportunity to evaluate and address these deficiencies. Improving fundamentals, making schematic adjustments, and developing younger players will be critical to rebuilding Clemson’s defensive reputation.
“Obviously, it’s been a frustrating year in that area,” Swinney acknowledged after the season. “We have to be better. It starts with coaching, preparation, and executing the fundamentals. That’s our responsibility as a program.”
Despite the disappointing end to the season, Clemson has reasons for optimism. A talented group of underclassmen gained valuable experience this year, and the coaching staff has a proven track record of developing defensive talent. However, significant improvements will be needed to return to the level of success Clemson fans have come to expect.
For now, the 2024 season will be remembered as one where the defense failed to meet its storied reputation. As the Tigers regroup and prepare for 2025, restoring their defensive dominance will be a top priority. With strong leadership and a commitment to improvement, Clemson can once again become a force to be reckoned with in college football.
