No. 23 Tigers Lean on Stifling Defense in Win Over Hokies

© Brian Bishop-Imagn Images

The No. 23 Clemson Tigers (7-2, 6-1 Atlantic Coast Conference) overcame a lackluster offensive performance to earn a physical 24-14 win over the Virginia Tech Hokies (5-5, 3-3).

The Tigers defense was the story of the game, allowing only one score to the Hokies offense. In all, the defense forced 3 turnovers, allowed 228 total yards of offense and conceded just 2-of-14 third down conversions in a statement performance.

Game Summary

Just a week ago, the Tigers' anemic, predictable offense put an end to their dominant six-game win streak in a 33-21 loss to the Louisville Cardinals (6-3, 4-2). In a scoreless first quarter against the Hokies, the Tigers seemed content to stick with the same conservative offensive philosophy. Clemson had some success moving the ball methodically down the field, but poor decision-making by quarterback Cade Klubnik kept the Tigers from putting points on the board.

At the start of the second quarter, Clemson's defense attempted to take matters into their own hands. Defensive end TJ Parker forced a fumble on quarterback Kyron Drones to set the Tigers offense up in prime field position. The Hokies defense stood tall, however, and Clemson was forced to attempt a field goal.

The Tigers' persistent special teams' woes cost them in a big moment early, as the Hokies blocked the field goal attempt and returned it for a touchdown. The Hokies had run just nine offensive plays and had been utterly stumped on offense, but they managed to lead 7-0 early in the second quarter.

Despite possessing the ball for just over 10 minutes and totaling only 96 yards of offense, the Hokies remained ahead 7-0 heading into halftime.

The Tigers entered the second half with a sense of urgency. Klubnik capped off a quick 8-play, 60-yard opening drive with a 29-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Cole Turner to even the score.

Clemson's defense continued to stifle the Hokies' attack, and the Tigers offense retook the field after a three-and-out from the Virginia Tech offense. Klubnik then delivered the highlight of the game, breaking out of a potential sack and heaving the ball to a wide open TJ Moore for a 41-yard touchdown to take a 14-7 lead.

The Tigers were finally in a rhythm on offense. An acrobatic interception from defensive back Ashton Hampton gave the Clemson offense the ball back, and Klubnik capped off a 10-play, 93-yard drive with his third passing touchdown of the half.

The Tigers never looked back and eventually cruised to a 24-14 victory.

Turning Point for Tigers

Late in the third quarter, the Hokies trailed 14-7 and were still searching for their first offensive score of the day. They finally managed to establish some positive momentum and drove into opposing territory. Drones lofted a pass down the field searching for wide receiver Da'Quan Felton, but Tigers' freshman standout Ashton Hampton somehow reeled in the ball for a wild interception. The turnover shifted the momentum of the game back to Clemson, and the Tigers never looked back.

What It Means

The Tigers managed to keep their ACC title hopes alive with their win combined with the No. 4 Miami Hurricanes' (9-1, 5-1) shocking loss to the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (6-4, 4-3). If Clemson truly hopes to compete for a spot in the College Football Playoff, however, they will have to address their inconsistent offense quickly. Klubnik has shown an ability to create explosive plays, but his dynamic potential has gone missing in the last couple weeks. The Tigers will hope he can rebound sooner rather than later with a pivotal matchup against the No. 18 Pitt Panthers (7-1, 3-1) next week.

© Brian Bishop-Imagn Images

The Hokies have shown flashes of brilliance on both sides of the ball this year, but injuries have derailed their promising run in conference play. Drones and running back Bhayshul Tuten both left the game due to injuries, and the offense struggled to move the ball in their absence. The Hokies have a bye week to heal before a trip to the Duke Blue Devils (6-3, 2-3) where they will attempt to earn their sixth win and bowl eligibility.