Clemson emerged with a hard-fought 24-20 win over Pitt on Saturday, overcoming key injuries and a late-game challenge. The Tigers entered the fourth quarter with a 17-7 lead, but Pitt scored 13 unanswered points, taking a 20-17 lead with just under two minutes left.
With the offense struggling throughout the second half, Cade Klubnik orchestrated a rapid 75-yard drive in only 20 seconds, capping it off with a game-winning touchdown run with 1:16 remaining. Pitt managed to move the ball to the Clemson 29-yard line with four seconds left, but Khalil Barnes intercepted Nate Yarnell’s fourth-down pass as time expired, securing the victory for the Tigers.
Injuries played a major role in the game. Elyjah Thurmon’s injury on the first offensive play, Wade Woodaz’s absence, and Sammy Brown’s ejection for targeting left Clemson’s defense shorthanded. RJ Mickens also went down in the fourth quarter, further depleting an already thin defense. Despite these setbacks, Clemson’s defense kept Pitt to 438 total yards, although they were outgained 264-102 in the second half.
Clemson’s hopes for an ACC Championship are still alive, but they will need to get healthier, particularly on the offensive line. With six offensive linemen now sidelined by significant injuries, including starters Marcus Tate and Tristan Leigh, the team’s depth continues to be tested.
It was a wild game, and one Clemson fans probably don’t feel too great about. Looking ahead, Clemson will return home next weekend to face The Citadel.