Tigers Drop Back-And-Forth Game to Duke, 46-45

Clemson (3–5, 2–4 ACC) showcased a powerful offense with 560 total yards but suffered a narrow 46–45 defeat to Duke (5–3, 4–1 ACC) at Memorial Stadium on Saturday. The game’s outcome turned in the final seconds after Duke completed a late touchdown and a two-point conversion with just 40 seconds remaining.

Key Moments

Clemson held a seven-point edge following a 75-yard catch-and-run touchdown by T.J., then forced a punt on the ensuing possession. However, after their own punt with 5:19 left, the Tigers pinned Duke at its six-yard line. The Blue Devils responded with a 94-yard, 11-play drive lasting 4:39, converting two fourth downs and sealing the lead with a two-point attempt.

Clemson’s final drive stalled, and Duke claimed the victory after a tense closing stretch.

Offensive Highlights

Quarterback Cade Klubnik completed 27 of 36 passes for 385 yards and two touchdowns.
Antonio Williams led the receiving corps with 142 yards on 10 catches, adding both a receiving and a rushing touchdown.
Adam Randall contributed 89 rushing yards and scored twice on the ground.

Defensive Standouts

Peter Woods and Jahiem Lawson each recorded a sack.
Linebacker Sammy Brown paced the team with 10 tackles.
Khalil Barnes followed closely with nine tackles.

“Duke jumped to a 7–0 lead on its first possession when quarterback Darien Mensah connected with Que’Sean Brown on a 19-yard touchdown pass with 10:08 on the clock.”

Summary

The Tigers’ explosive performance was undone by late defensive lapses, allowing Duke to snatch victory in the final seconds of a dramatic ACC matchup.

Clemson University Athletics — 2025-11-02